Tips For a Successful Job Interview

Apply alone. The employer wants to talk to you, not to your relatives or friends.

Be on time. Being on time, or even a few minutes early, demonstrates to the interviewer you can be punctual. If you are late for your interview, your chances of getting the job are hurt.

Be friendly. Smile. Know the interviewer's name and call him or her by name in the interview. Show an interest in the business. The interviewer will ask you questions about yourself.

Use good manners. Stand until invited to be seated. Do not smoke or chew gum. Sit up straight and be alert. Be sure to thank the interviewer for the meeting (interview).

Listen. The employer knows more about the job and the business than you do, so let him or her do most of the talking. Listen to the questions and statements and let them determine what you say or how you respond.

Speak clearly and confidently. Think about what you are going to say before you speak. Take time to cover all points, answers, and questions completely.

Be honest. Tell only what you can do and have done. Stress your qualifications. Present your work record, references, or other material to support your statements when they are requested.

Don't criticize others. If you are asked about a previous associate or employer, say something positive.

Don't be afraid. Most interviewers are patient and considerate. Be confident. You have something to offer. Remember--the employer is looking for good workers, and you are looking for a good job opportunity.

Keep your courage. If you don't get the job, accept the fact that the job was probably not suited for you or you for the company. If you made a good impression in the interview, the employer may refer you to another employer or put your name down for future reference if another job opportunity becomes available.

Once You Have a Job...

• Positive work attitude
• Dependability
• Cooperation
• Initiative
• Pride in work
• Ability to get along with others
• Honesty
• Enthusiasm
• Cheerfulness
• Ability to listen and carry out instructions
• Loyalty
• Efficiency - not wasting time and materials
• Reliability
• Good and prompt attendance
• Helpfulness
• Willingness to learn
• Ability to follow rules and regulations

As a successful worker, you can generally expect the following things from your employer:

• Appreciation for work well done
• Training and orientation necessary to do the job
• Adequate pay for work done
• Understanding of personal problems
• Explanation of work benefits such as insurance, bonuses, and vacation
• Provisions for safety on the job
• Information about changes that will affect you
• Obedience to all legal regulations
• Discipline for rules violation

Develop a working understanding of the information in this Extension information sheet, and you will be successful in any particular job and throughout your career.

Revised and distributed in Mississippi by Dr. Rae Wilkinson, State 4-H Curriculum Specialist

Information Sheet 506
Extension Service of Mississippi State University, cooperating with U.S. Department of Agriculture. Published in furtherance of Acts of Congress, May 8 and June 30, 1914. Ronald A. Brown, Director

Copyright by Mississippi State University. All rights reserved.

This document may be copied and distributed for nonprofit educational purposes provided that credit is given to the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

Visit: DAFVM || USDA
Search our Site || Need more information about this subject?
Last Modified: Wednesday, 11-Feb-09 14:06:34
URL: http://msucares.com/pubs/infosheets/is0506.htm
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution.
Recommendations on this web site do not endorse any commercial products or trade names.