Being prepared for an interview is key to presenting yourself as a viable candidate. Everything about you is being evaluated from the time you submit your resume for an opportunity. Here are a few tips to make sure you make a winning first impression and a lasting one:
The first phone call from the recruiter or hiring manager is just as important as your resume. Be professional and thoughtful with your responses.
Wear business professional dress to the interview. A suit (skirt or pant) or a dress and gentlemen should absolutely wear a tie; keep your jewelry to a minimum as well. You do not want your attire to serve as a distraction, nor relate the impression that you are not serious about the opportunity.
You should arrive to the interview 15 minutes before your appointment time.
When you arrive make sure you greet the receptionist and make him/her aware "I am here for a 2:00 interview with Ms. Mary Williams." The receptionist's opinion counts as well, so refrain from engaging in an unprofessional manner.
If asked to complete an application do so with care and provide the information requested.
Do not begin to text, surf the internet, or engage in a telephone call while you wait.
Make sure to have a good handshake in your toolbox. If you are not sure you have one, practice with a friend. It is that important.
When engaged in the interview, make good eye contact with the interviewer and give thoughtful replies to each question.
Before the interview you should practice responses to the typical interview questions, for example:
Tell me about yourself?
What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Tell me about a time you went the extra mile for a student, customer, or manager?
Provide an example of a lesson you developed for your students? What was the objective? What was the result of the activity?
Provide a time you had a challenge at work, how did you manage it and what was the result?
At the end of the interview when you are asked if you have any questions; have 1-2 questions at the ready for the interviewer. One can be, "When do you expect to complete the interviewing process and select a candidate?"
Make sure you thank the interviewer for meeting with you and follow up with a formal thank you email or letter.