The on-site interview

Get ready

An interview is a two-way exchange for gathering information: The interviewer is looking for information about you, while you want to know whether the position is what you are looking for.

An effective preparation will ensure that you are articulate, concise and direct. The preparation includes practice and coaching. You can get some last-minute tips from coaching specialists exhibiting at the event either in the Training & Education Pavilion or in the Employment Services Pavilion. The better prepared you are, the more confident you will be and the more successful your interview will be.

• Complete and review a self-assessment. Use any of the books available on the market to identify your general competencies and attributes.
  
  
• Go to your local public library to find appropriate tools and the resources available.
  
  
• Become familiar with the job description. Feel comfortable that it is a good match for your capabilities, interests and career objectives.
  
  
• Do your research. Learn as much as you can about the job, the department and the business. Network!
  
  
• Consider talking to the hiring manager or human resources consultant to find out more about the job and the type of interview you can expect.
  
  
• Prepare ahead of time your answers to questions about your education and experiences that might relate to the job.
  
  
• Become familiar with your answers so that you can talk accurately and spontaneously during the interview.
  
  
• Practice your responses out loud either to yourself, a family member, a friend or a co-worker before you come to the event. This is not acting—it is practicing!
  
  
• Make sure your portfolio is up to date with samples of the work you have accomplished, such as relevant reports and presentations.
  
  
• Prior to the interview, write some questions you might want to ask.