In person—first impressions are very important.
By telephone—verbal communication is the most important.
Video-conferencing—it’s important to pay attention to body language, since the employer can see you.
Interviews
Did your resumé and cover letter get you an interview? Congratulations! Interviews can be scary, but with proper preparation, a mock interview and the help of our Career Corner team, you’ll make a good impression!
Types of interviews
Before the interview
- Review and analyze the job description in detail. Compare your skills, experience and abilities to the job requirements.
- Review your resumé and professional portfolio, and gather all required documentation, such as references.
- Research the company: the better you know it, the more you’ll impress the employer. This step is extremely important.
- Anticipate questions you may be asked and prepare answers that highlight your skills and accomplishments with concrete examples.
- Prepare questions for the interviewer.
- Find out the names and titles of the people interviewing you, the location and duration of your interview, and whether there will be any tests.
- Practise, practise, practise! That’s the secret to success.
During the interview
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Never arrive late!
- Dress appropriately and professionally.
- Greet your interviewer with eye contact, a smile and a firm handshake.
- Bring your portfolio (copies of your resumé, references, transcripts, certificates, etc.).
- Have a positive attitude and be enthusiastic: employers are looking for people with a positive attitude and often emphasize attitude over skills, training and experience.
- Maintain eye contact and good posture throughout the interview. Did you know that 55% of the communication process involves body language?
- Answer questions clearly and concisely. Stay focused and don’t lose your train of thought.
- Allow the employer to lead the interview; ask questions for clarification whenever necessary.
- Always support your answers with concrete examples.
- Ask the questions you’ve prepared.
- Don’t forget to find out about the next step in the recruitment process.
Tips
- Speak slowly and articulate well.
- Pause for a moment and ask for clarification if necessary.
- Avoid using “you know,” “uh” and informal language; don’t memorize your answers or come across as “robotic.”
- Don’t ask about salary or benefits until the interviewer raises the issue.
- Don’t wear excessive jewellery or perfume.
- Never criticize former employers, co-workers or professors.
After the interview
- Make notes about the job, the company and how you answered the questions. This will be useful information when writing a thank you message or preparing for a second interview.
- Within 24 to 48 hours after the interview, send a thank you letter.
- If you haven’t heard from the employer within a week or two of your first interview, follow up either by phone or by email.
- If you weren’t selected for the job or a second interview, ask for feedback about your performance during the interview.
Questions
To be well prepared, get to know the different categories of interview questions.
Questions to ask the employer
These questions will let you get information to help you evaluate the position you’re seeking and confirm to the employer that you’re interested in the position.
Some examples:
About the position:
- What’s a typical workday like and what would my main duties include?
- What are some short- and long-term goals you’d like me to meet?
- What criteria would you consider necessary to meet the position requirements?
- What kind of performance do you expect from the person holding this position?
- How does this position contribute to the overall goals and objectives of the department?
- How does the company contribute to its employees’ professional development? What training do you offer?
About the organization:
- What is the company’s philosophy?
- What are the biggest challenges facing the company?
- What are your company’s strengths?
- How many people does the company employ?
- What are the company’s plans for future growth?
- What differentiates you from your competitors?
- As the hiring manager, what do you like most about working here?
About career advancement:
- Does the company offer career advancement opportunities?
- What is a typical career path for this position?
Questions not to ask the interviewer:
- Anything that is already in the company’s literature or that can be easily found on its website.
- What will my salary be?*
- What is the company’s benefits package?*
* These topics are usually discussed in a second interview or when negotiating over an offer.