At the Interview

The interview starts the moment you walk into the building. Who knows? The guy who rushes into the elevator with you might be your interviewer. So be on your best behavior from the get-go.

When introduced to the interviewer, repeat his or her name and shake hands ("It's nice to meet you, Mr. Borland"). Be prepared to make a little small talk — follow the interviewer's lead.

Once the actual interview begins, what you hear is as important as what you say. Listen attentively to a question and pause briefly before you begin to answer. Also, listen for clues about what skills and traits are most important to the employer. Emphasize those abilities in your answers. When the interviewer mentions a problem that needs to be solved, clearly state your ability to solve it.

The interviewer might look at your resume and ask a few questions that are clearly answered there. The purpose of this is to make a quick check of your honesty. You may also be asked to expand on the information in your resume. Be prepared to explain exactly how you achieved any accomplishments listed there.

What to ask them
When the interviewer has finished questioning you, it will be your turn. Your questions must be informed ones, not general questions that should have been answered in your pre-interview research. Some suggestions:

		What kind of career path could the person in this job expect?
		Where is the person now who last held the job?
		What are the day-to-day duties of the position?
		How does the job relate to the company's activities and goals?
		What is the next step in the hiring process?

Be careful not to do the following:

		Interrupt the interviewer.
		Bad-mouth your previous employers.
		Monopolize the conversation.
		Give "yes" or "no" answers.
		Talk just to fill an uncomfortable silence.