A job interview represents your opportunity to demonstrate your experience and qualification to a potential employer. This opportunity typically comes with a lot of pressure and stress. You can minimize the stress of a job interview and increase your chances of success with careful preparation. Women should follow the same basic job interview strategies as men.
Preparation
Research the organization or company for which you are applying to work, and learn more about the individuals you will be meeting. Know the names and job titles of those who will be interviewing you. Read through the job description carefully, noticing all the qualifications and skills the employer requires or prefers. Prepare to give specific examples of occasions when you have proven certain skills and qualities in the past. Prepare for other general questions about your experience, your future goals, your strengths and weaknesses, and your interest in the position available. Prepare several questions to ask the employer, as well. Print several copies of your resume on heavyweight paper to bring to the interview.
Day of Interview
Dress appropriately for the interview. When in doubt, men and women should dress more formally than they think might be necessary. A two-piece matching suit, whether with pants or a skirt, provides a safe choice for attire. Choose skirts that reach at least to your knees when standing and that will cover your thighs when sitting. Choose dark, conservative colors. Wear minimal makeup that will not call attention to itself, and keep nail polish conservative. Avoid wearing perfume. Leave early enough for the interview to get there about 15 minutes ahead of schedule. If you use public transportation, take an early bus or train in case of traffic or delay.
During Interview
Speak slowly and clearly during the interview, and try to project an upbeat, positive attitude with your tone and body language. Make eye contact with the interviewer or interviewers. Ask for clarification about any questions you do not understand, and take time to think about what you want to say before you begin answering. Use specific examples to support your answers whenever possible. Speak succinctly and without rambling. Avoid speaking negatively about previous jobs, employers or work environments, and avoid using slang. Ask questions about the job and company to demonstrate your curiosity and enthusiasm.
Illegal Or Unethical Questions
Local, state and federal laws require employers to stick to questions relevant to the job when interviewing potential candidates, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. If an interviewer asks you whether you plan to have a family in the near future, you do not have to answer. Or, you could simply state that you will be willing to meet the job's travel and schedule requirements.
After Interview
Take notes on your interview experience to learn from your mistakes or successes. Make a list of questions you felt you answered well and questions you had trouble answering. Follow up with a thank-you note after the interview. If multiple people interviewed you, send notes to each person individually. Thank the interviewer for her time and reiterate your interest in the job.
References
- Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs: Interview Appearance and Attire
- Indiana University Indy Law: Interviewing Tips
- Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants Student Center: Handling Illegal Interview Questions
- Yale University: Interview Tips
- Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs: Questions to Ask Employers During Interviews
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