[EKUAlum05]

Now lets say you find a position and they are interested in an interview with you, a few things to know IMO:

1. Treat every phone call as if it is an interview. Answer professionally and be conscious of your grammar, but don't be afraid to show personality.

2. Familiarize yourself with the "S.T.A.R. Method of Answering" if they do in fact conduct a phone interview to qualify you.

3. Invest in a suit and have it tailored. Joseph A Bank stores always have a good sale going on. If you can find a S&K Menswear they have extremely good deals on suits. Invest in a pair of dress shoes and polish them. Remember to match your belt to your shoes and never wear white socks with dress shoes.

I would purchase two dress shirts, a standard white and a color of your choice. I would purchase 3 ties in case the interview process requires multiple steps. LEARN TO TIE A DOUBLE WINDSOR KNOT! The rule of thumb for tie length is you want the very tip to touch the top of your belt buckle.

4. Purge out all unnecessary info on your resume, keep it as concise and pertinent as possible. When I receive a resume over 2 pages I almost immediately disregard it.

Print multiple copies of your resume on actual resume paper, do not use standard copy paper.

In lieu of listing a bunch of references on your actual resume, list "Reference Sheet Available Upon Request". Have an equal amount of copies of this sheet available, make sure it is printed on the same resume paper and laid out symmetrically. I would give one alongside your resume to the main person interviewing, but refrain from doing so unless asked for by others.

5. Research the company you are interviewing with and have questions prepared accordingly. Try and incorporate hints of your research in the questions to show initiative. Example:

"I see your company has grown 11% in the past year alone, what do you feel has contributed to this growth and do you expect this trend to continue?"

6. Do not be the first to bring up money. It's tacky and an insult for someone who is granting you the opportunity to interview.

7. Avoid eliminating yourself. Do not ever talk about yourself in a negative light. Even if the interviewer specifically asks what your weaknesses are, find a positive spin. For example instead of saying "I am not very good with numbers" say "I require more time and effort with numerical issues because I want to make sure my work is correct.". Instead of saying "I get overwhelmed when I have too many things to do" say "I have an issue delegating thing to do because I want to make sure they are done properly."