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Before the Interview


Taking "The Call"

The company is interested in your resume and would like you to interview. Are you prepared?

When you apply for a job, keep a copy of the resume and cover letter you sent and a copy of the job listing. When you get the call, have your scheduler/calendar available to confirm specific interview dates.

To avoid being caught off-guard by an employer's phone call, you may even consider not answering your phone (if you have voice mail or an answering machine). Return the call when you have your thoughts organized and your resume and the job ad in front of you. You might also want to re-think listing your cell phone number on your resume. Taking a call from an employer while you're in class or in the mall could be quite awkward.

Research the Company and the Position

The more you know about the company and the job you are applying for, the better you will appear in the interview. You will be able to explain what you can do for the company. Find out as much key information as you can about the company, and its customers. If possible, talk to people who work at the company. There are other sources of information on the Web, especially if the company is publicly traded. Resources to Research Companies

Prepare for the Interview

Practice your answers to commonly asked questions. Preparation and practice are the keys to doing well in an interview. Like any other skill, practice makes perfect.

   Prepare by:
  • Consider how you would answer questions.
  • Be thorough - make sure your answers are in the form of complete sentences.
   Practice by:
  • Practice answering questions out loud
  • Practice with a friend or family member or better tape yourself
  • Most important: schedule a mock interview with one of the career counselors in the Career Development Center by calling (510) 885-3621.
Develop questions to ask the interviewer. Keep these questions focused on the position or company, the position and what is important for you to know to decide whether this is a good opportunity for you. Stay away from self-related topics (benefits, vacation, pay, etc.)

Dress professionally and comfortably.

You will be judged by what you wear. When in doubt, dress conservatively.

   For women:
  • A simple business suit or conservative dress.
  • Wear sensible pumps.
  • Be moderate with make-up and perfume.
  • Wear simple jewelry.
  • Hair and fingernails should be well-groomed.
   For men:
  • A clean, ironed shirt and conservative tie are a must.
  • A simple jacket or business suit is a good idea.
  • Shoes should be polished.
  • Face clean-shaven; facial hair should be neatly trimmed.
  • Hair and fingernails should be well-groomed.
  • Use cologne or after-shave sparingly.
Bring pen and notepad to note any information you may need to remember.

Know Where you are Going

Do what you need to do to ensure you get to the interviewing location at least 20 minutes early -- get specific directions, or drive to the interviewing location the day before. Also, remember to allow for traffic.

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Career Development Center, WA-509, 25800 Carlos Bee Boulevard, Hayward, CA 94542, (510) 885-3621, (510) 885-2398(fax) Webmaster Email