Interviewing Tips for Military Spouses September 2009

In your quest for a new or a better career, you will ultimately find yourself scheduled for a job interview. The prospect can be a little scary. But keep in mind that the real purpose behind the interview is for you and your potential employer to learn more about each other. You both want to find a good fit and the interview is how that determination is made.

In today’s highly competitive job market, you can be sure that you won’t be the only one trying to land the job. These tips will help you stand out over the other candidates:

Before the interview

• Learn what you can about the company and the position. Do your research online and off. If you know others who work there and can speak with them discreetly about the organization, do so.

• Review your resume and mentally prepare answers to the most common interview questions.

• Think about questions that you will want to ask the employer. Your questions will help you determine if the company and the position are right for you.

• Decide what you are going to wear at the interview.

• Gather together your reference letters, your portfolio, and any other items you will need for the interview. 

• Make sure you know how soon in advance to leave your house to get there on time. Drive the route ahead of time, taking into consideration potential traffic. Build in time for “friction,” like road construction.

• Make arrangements for child care, if necessary. Plan to go to the interview alone.

At the interview

• Arrive 10 minutes early.

• Be pleasant and professional to everyone you meet, even if they keep you waiting.

• Breathe. Breathing is good way to get rid of interview jitters. Use positive body language throughout the interview. Offer a firm handshake, sit up straight, and maintain eye contact. Take a look at CareerBuilder's Body Language Do's and Don'ts.

• Answer the employer’s questions thoughtfully, thoroughly, and in a way that highlights your own unique strengths.

• Avoid saying anything negative about past employers, co-workers, and situations.

• At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer; ask when a decision will be made and if you may follow up.

After the interview

• Analyze the interview, making a mental note of what went well and what you could have done better.

• Start thinking about how you would answer a job offer, taking into consideration what you have learned about the position to this point.

• Send a thank you note the same day or the day after. Whether you use regular mail or e-mail, be sure to remind the employer of your interest in the position.

• Follow up if you haven’t heard anything in a week or by the time the interviewer said you would be notified of a hiring decision.

• Continue your job search while you wait to hear whether or not you landed the job.

• If you didn’t get the job, try not to be discouraged. Think of the interview as a learning experience and move on.

Remember, Military OneSource is available 24/7 to help you with a whole range of work and personal issues, including education and careers.  Call 1-800-342-9647 or check the Web site at www.MilitaryOneSource.com to learn more.

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