Smart Steps
Women business leaders and entrepreneurs from various industries share their tips and advice in a "quick read format" on a variety topics.
Topic: Preparing For Your First Professional Interview
As part of our 7th Annual FOCUS ON YOUTH Special Issue
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Lynn Crocetta is a Training & Engagement Specialist, Certified Workplace Mediator, Certified Workplace Coach, and Certified DiSC Practitioner.
As a former guidance counselor and employment counselor, Lynn has spent much of her professional career helping others prepare for their next career steps with resume and interview preparation. |
Proud Sponsors of FOCUS ON YOUTH '22:
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If you are like many other people just entering the workforce – or reentering the workforce – the thought of a job interview might make you feel uneasy. Job interviews are wonderful opportunities! Challenge yourself so the thought of a job interview will make you feel excitement instead of anxiety.
Follow some simple Dos and Don’ts to prepare for that first interview:
Dos:
Don’ts:
Follow some simple Dos and Don’ts to prepare for that first interview:
Dos:
- Be prepared!
- Research the potential employer: read their mission, values, and vision statements to learn what they are about and what is important to them.
- Bring extra copies of your resume to an interview. If interviewing remotely, have resume ready on your desktop in the event you are asked to email.
- Have at least three questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview; these questions must be well thought out and relevant to the job.
- Be authentic: Be genuine and honest. Bring your best self to the interview.
- Be able to clearly communicate your skills and strengths: Prepare examples and powerful stories to share and demonstrate how awesome you are! Think back to previous work experience, volunteer experience, internships, and education for stories and examples. Focus on how you solved problems, took a leadership role, or provided assistance to others.
- Be professionally dressed, be on time, and give a confident handshake if a hand is extended to you.
- Be mindful of your body language (even when interviewing remotely): Maintain eye contact, nod to show that you are actively listening and interested, and smile. First impressions matter!
- Be conversational, not rehearsed. Communicate clearly. It is okay to ask for clarification on a question if you are unsure what they are asking.
- Be sure to send a thank you email/note after the interview (within 24 hours recommended).
Don’ts:
- Don't be late to the interview.
- Don't be sloppily dressed.
- Don't be fidgety or chew gum during the interview.
- Don't be an oversharer of personal or irrelevant information.
- Don't bring your cell phone to the interview; if you do, make sure it is silenced.
- Don't bring anyone else with you to the interview.
- Don't answer questions with just a yes or no; make sure to provide detailed answers.
