The Importance of Interviewing Well

I've recently completed interviews for an open position and thought I would share some important tips that may help you in the future.  It takes a lot of work just to get an interview, why would you not want to do your best? 

When an employer calls you for an interview, they are trying to see if you are a good fit for the position.  This screening begins with that initial phone conversation and continues until the hire is complete.  Convince them you are the best fit for the job.  Here is how:

• Be professional and polite in all communications
• Research the company and the position
• Smile - who wants to work with someone who is not enthused about the job?
• Know what skills/traits/abilities you have that are directly related to the position
• Listen closely and be sure to answer the question
• Match your skills to the job description

Here are some interview killers to avoid:

• Be sure you want this job, not just a job - it is easy for the interviewer to tell and a bad signal to send; if you are just looking for a job, an employer will assume you will only be in the position long enough to find something better
• Don't show up unprepared; if you were given directions/assignments for the interview, follow the instructions
• Short, non-descriptive answers do not help the interviewer
• Not understanding the requirements of the position, or knowledge of the employer, indicates you have not done your research and are probably not a strong candidate
• Do not be rude or dismissive on the phone