February 18, 2003 By Claire Pitera

How to prepare for an interview:

1. Research the company you're interviewing with.
2. Whether you're interviewing at numerous places, or only a few, be prepared with answers to some general interview questions. Most interviewers, will at some time, ask you questions, or some variation of the question, such as:
• "Tell me a little about yourself."
• "Why should we hire you over the other candidates for this job?; What can you bring to this organization?"
• "What are your strengths?"
• "What areas would you like to continue to improve?"
• "What kind of role you usually take on in a team environment?"
• Also be prepared to answer questions that start with the phrase "Tell me about a time when . . ." (Don't feel nervous or anxious about taking time to think about your answer to a question like this. There may be some uncomfortable silence, but that's OK.

If it's a management type of position:

• "What is your management style?"
• "How do you motivate your team?"
• "Tell me about a time you made and unpopular decision and dealt with the reaction?"
3. Be able to clearly explain your job history.
4. Make your answers concise. Don’t babble.
5. Be prepared for different interview styles
• Conversational
• "By the book"
• Intimidation
6. Don't share too much information.

Illegal questions:

• "How old are you?"
• "Are you married?"
• "Do you have any children?"
• "What church to you belong to?"
• "What country are you from?"

Legal questions:

• "Have you ever been convicted of a felony?"
• "Are you able to work legally in the United States?"
• "Have you ever served in the Military?"
• "Is there anything that would keep you from being here when we needed you?"
7. "Sell" yourself.
8. Prepare a list of questions.
9. "Dress for Success"