The Interview from The Creative Group

Preparing for the interview:

• Preparation is essential to remaining calm under pressure and is the first step toward a successful interview. Here are some tips:
• Organize the night before. Your interview clothing, briefcase and portfolio should all be prepared. Make time for a good night's rest.
• Know the exact place and time of the meeting, the interviewer's full name (including correct pronunciation), and his or her title.
• Research the company through the Internet or library to learn pertinent facts such as annual sales revenue, principal lines of business and locations.
• Be prepared to ask questions of the hiring manager during the interview. Base these questions on your research to show that you've done your homework.
• Look your professional best. In most situations, business attire in a neutral color works well. Be conservative in your use of fragrance, cosmetics and jewelry.
• Bring several copies of your resume, along with your portfolio and a list of references.
  

Interviewing... DOs:

• Arrive on time or a few minutes early.
• Greet the interviewer by last name if you are sure of the pronunciation. If not, ask the employer to repeat it.
• Wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright, and look alert and interested at all times. Listen carefully and respond succinctly and articulately.
• Early in the meeting, try to get the interviewer to describe the job and the duties to you so you can focus your responses on your background, skills and accomplishments that relate to the position.
• Be sincere. Note achievements such as original concepts you developed, projects you managed and websites you produced.
  

Interviewing... DON'Ts:

• Don't answer with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain whenever possible.
• If you don't understand a question - or need a moment to think about it - say so. Never pretend to know something or someone when you don't.
• Don't make negative remarks about present or former employers. When explaining why you left, communicate your rationale professionally.
• Don't inquire about salary, vacations, benefits, bonuses or retirement on the initial interview. If the interviewer asks what salary you want, give a range based on your research of the job market, but indicate that you're more interested in the opportunity for continued learning and professional development than in a specific salary.

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