Career Center and Human Resources Department

Interviewing Tips

Many of us get very nervous about interviewing for a new job. There are ways to reduce your nervousness and to ensure that you do a good job on your interview. Preparation is the key. Follow the suggestions below to help you feel relaxed and prepared.

1. Learn about the agency - Visit the agency web site. Learn about the Disability Service Agencies and state government, and plan how to use the information in your interview.
2. Practice Interviewing - Review the job requirements and your qualifications. Develop questions that you might be asked during an interview and responses that best demonstrate your qualifications. Practicing will help you feel more relaxed when your actual interview arrives.
3. Be on time - If you are unfamiliar with the location of the interview, ask for directions and drive to the location in advance. Allow extra time to ensure that you are not late.
4. Dress appropriately - Dress in accordance with the position for which you are applying.
5. Set the Stage - Greet interviewers with good eye contact, a smile and a firm hand shake (not limp or a death-grip!).
6. Listen and Answer with Confidence - Think about the interview questions and determine what information is being requested. Respond to all aspects of the question but keep your answers accurate and to the point.
7. Express Your Qualifications and Skills - Be prepared to demonstrate how your skills will benefit the agency and how you are the most qualified candidate. Be positive in your responses.
8. Express Interest - Ask questions about the agency and the job. If you are interested in the job and the organization, take time near the end of the interview to express it.
9. What Happens Next? - Do you need to supply additional information to be considered for the position? What are the next stages in the employment process and when might they occur? These are questions that you should consider asking toward the end of the interview.
10. Express Thanks - Thank the interviewers for their time and follow-up with a thank-you note.