Interviewing for jobs

By Tricia Dahlman
Career Information Specialist
iSeek Solutions

Interviews are an important step in a job search. Employers interview candidates to find a good fit for their business and your child learns more about the employer and the job. There are many types of interviews: by phone or in-person; with a group of two or more candidates; or, a panel interview with more than one person from the company.

Preparing for an interview is very important, and family members can help. The first step is to learn more about the company and the job available. Start with the job description, company Website, annual business report or talk with current employees to get more information.

The next step is to practice answering interview questions. Create a list of common interview questions. Talk with your child about different ways to answer each question. It is also helpful to role-play an actual interview. Become the interviewer and ask your child all of the questions from your list.

At the end of the interview, most employers will ask candidates if they have any questions. Help your child create a list of possible questions to ask. It shows your child is interested in the position and has prepared for the interview.

On the interview day, send your child off with these helpful reminders:

• Be on time or early
• Go by yourself
• Look professional
• Shake hands firmly
• Maintain eye contact
• Try to relax and remember to smile

Following Up After an Interview

Your child should send a thank-you note after each job interview. Encourage your child to send a thank-you note even if the interview did not go well. Deliver the note no later than 24 hours after the interview.

A thank-you note can be brief. The note should include:

• Appreciation for the opportunity to interview
• Expression of continued interest in the job
• Brief restatement of skills
• Any important information not said at the interview
• Final thank you
• Date and time for next follow-up

Address the thank-you note to the interviewer by name and title. Send separate thank-you notes to each person in the interview or to a key person to share with the others.

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