HCA West Florida Recruiters

Interviewing Tips

Now that you have completed your application on line and received a call for a personal interview, let’s look at a few things you should consider.  The interview is your opportunity to “wow” the employer. 

1. Arrive Early.  Usually it is good to arrive about 10 minutes prior to the interview.  This will give the interviewer the impression you are always on time.
2. Dress Professionally.  This is not the time to wear your new stylish outfit.  Be conservative.  Consider dark or khaki slacks or skirt with a white or solid colored blouse or shirt.  (No jeans.)  Be neat and clean.  Keep your perfume to a minimum or don’t use any at best. 
3. Attitude.  A winning attitude is critical to a successful interview.  Remember how you portray yourself is critical.  Be positive!  When discussing your former employer, never volunteer negative information.  Don’t dodge an issue, but be factual, brief and honest.  Watch your body language!  Maintain good posture, be attentive and maintain a good demeanor throughout the interview. 
4. Length of time for the interview.  When you are contacted for a date and time for an interview, you should ask about a time frame.  Today managers will involve their staff in the interview process.  This could involve several hours.  If you are pressed for time you may not make a good impression.
5. Behavioral Based Questions.  Most interviews today involve what is called “Behavioral Based Questions.”  These are questions that ask what, where, who, when, why and how.  Think for a few moments before you answer.  The interviewer in interested in how you reacted in your previous work environment.  Think attitude!  Keep your answers focused on your experiences at work or education.  Don’t volunteer any personal information (number of children, home life, etc).  Just answer the question.
6. Questions.  It is always good for you to have a few questions.  Do your homework.  Review the company’s website.  Questions you might ask about are:  schedules, dress code and advancement opportunities with the company.  Don’t be concerned about pay scale on the first interview unless you feel during the interview the position will not meet your salary expectations. 
7. Thank You.  After the interview it is always nice to follow up with a thank you to the interviewer.  Thank them for their time and express your interest in the position.  You can send an email or a hand written personal note.  Don’t call back to ask about the status of the interview.  Remember attitude is critical to the success of the interview.

Chances are that if you have taken the time to read this article, that you are going on an interview soon.  I trust the suggestions give here will help you secure the position you want.

© 2010 Recruiting at HCA West Florida.