Prepare Questions to Ask
Take the time to develop relevant and insightful questions for each interview because that will let the employer know that you are interested in the organization and the position.
- Following a successful tenure in an entry-level position, what type of mobility is available within the organization?
- What is the typical daily routine of an individual in the position for which I am applying?
- Is it your policy to promote from within, or are positions filled by experienced people from the outside?
- What type of professional development is encouraged and offered by your organization?
- What do you like about working for this company?
- How would you describe the corporate culture?
- How does technology impact your business and work culture?
- Where is the company strong and where does it need to be strengthened?
Arrive On Time, and Say Thank You
Arrive a few minutes prior to your interview time, sign in at the front desk, and wait in the reception area until the interviewer greets you. Remember to show off your verbal and non-verbal interview skills. Also, make sure you get the interviewer’s contact information and write a thank you email within 24 hours to the person with whom you interviewed.
Types of Interviews
There are several different types of interviews you may have to do. Make sure you know which type of interview you are doing and prepare accordingly.
- Telephone Interview: Interviews over the telephone are typically done as the first phase of the interview process before bringing a candidate in for an in-person interview. Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview.
- Traditional Face-to-Face Interview: This is the most common type of interview that includes a face-to-face exchange at an organization’s office.
- Informational Interview: The object of this type of interview is to talk to experts in a particular field, employers, or job contacts in order to become more knowledgeable and informed, and make networking contacts.
- Virtual Interviews: Virtual interviews are very common these days and should be taken just as seriously as face-to-face interviews. Common mediums include Skype and Google Hangout.
- Group Interviews: In this situation, you’ll meet with several people at once. While it can seem intimidating at first, finding out the names and job titles of each member of the team beforehand and making an effort to connect with each individual through eye contact are helpful.
Dress for Success
Your appearance indicates your professionalism and respect for the interviewer(s), the company and the interview process. Additionally, your attire may encourage people to take you and what you say more seriously, and give you a boost in self-image and confidence - all of which are important advantages. In general, the preferred dress for an interview is traditional and conservative.
To assist students who don't own a suit, we offer Suit Up, a free program which provides suits and business attire for current Manhattan College students to wear for interviews and networking events where business formal attire is expected. We have suits for both men and women.
General Interview Dress Tips
Remember first impressions are lasting impressions. The assessment of your qualifications begins with non-verbal cues; such as the style, fit, color and cleanliness of your clothes; your choice of accessories; the firmness of your handshake; your posture; your demeanor; and your level of eye contact, enthusiasm and confidence. Do your homework: workplace culture will affect what is considered appropriate interview/office attire. Below you will find general guidelines:
- Hair should be tidy, freshly shampooed and off the face
- Headdress should be neutral colors
- Clothes should be cleaned, ironed and well-fitted
- Shoes should be dark, polished and clean
- Limit jewelry and accessories
- Tattoos are no longer taboo; however, industry standards suggest to cover them
- Eliminate fragrances
- No chewing gum
- Stay fresh- shower and brush your teeth before an interview
- Keep it simple and elegant; when in doubt leave it out
Tips for Women
- Dark two-piece suit (skirt, trousers, or a tailored dress)
- Blouses should be well-fitted, with a high/moderate neckline (no low cut shirts)
- Knee-length skirts and dresses
- An inch above or below the knee is acceptable
- No close-fitting attire (there should be no need to tug or adjust material)
- Hosiery should be non-patterned, sheer or nude toned
- Always carry an extra pair in case of runs
- Clean, comfortable, closed-toe, 1-2 inches pumps/shoes in dark traditional colors
- Minimal jewelry
- Accessorize with a purse/briefcase and a pad-folio
- Apply little or no make-up
- Nails should be clean, cut with or without a natural pink/clear polish
- No perfume
Tips for Men
- Dark two/three- piece suit (solid or narrow pinstriped)
- Long-sleeved dress shirt in white or a light blue (sleeves should extend to wrist)
- Always wear a tie (visit tiepedia for detailed assistance)
- Socks should be calf-length or higher in navy, black or gray (no white socks)
- Clean, dark polished shoes
- Minimize jewelry
- Carry a briefcase, a pad-folio or a backpack
- Well-groomed hair and tapered/no facial hair
- Compliment your suit with a leather belt that matches your shoes
- Nails should be clean and cut
- No cologne
