What's the Interview Going to Be Like?

Beginning

The first part of an interview is the greeting plus "getting to know you." (Think "Tell me about yourself"). An interviewer will want to put you at ease.


Middle

In the middle, the interviewer will be probing to learn:

• If you have the needed skills and can use them.

• If your attitude is promising: are you eager to learn?

• If you are excited about this chance: are you someone who cares about contributing?

• If you fit as a potential team member/employee.


End

The closing begins with a request for your questions. Consider asking, “Given our conversation so far, are there any particular questions you have about my candidacy that I could address now?”

Ask your planned questions. Ask what the next steps are; for a business card, so you know how to address your thank-you note; and with whom to follow up and when.


After the Interview

Within 24 to 48 hours of the interview, send a thank-you note by postal mail or e-mail to the person or people who interviewed you. Capitalize on this as a bonus opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm, restate your strengths or add to your response to a question raised in the interview.

See sample thank-you notes