Career Guidance Centre

What to Do Before, During, and After a Job Interview

Before

  • Know who will be interviewing you, correct spelling and pronunciation of their name, and learn a bit about their background.
  • Look closely at the company’s web site to get a feel for its culture, business goals, products or services, financial reports, and challenges.
  • Know where you are going, length of time it will take you. Look up the exact building location and how to get there.
  • Present your most polished image. Pick smart, appropriate clothes. Make sure everything is clean. Choose simple accessories, hair do and make up.
  • Prepare questions beforehand. Know the answers to basic questions that they will most likely ask you. Also come up with a few questions about the company or position you are applying for to show that you’re interested.
  • Take a pen and a notepad with you.
  • Arrive on time. Being early is always better than being late. Inform the person who will be interviewing you immediately if you are going to be late.

During

  • Stand and shake hands with the interviewer.
  • Do not smoke even if you are offered.
  • Let the interviewer show your chair.
  • Avoid looking at your watch, cell phone.
  • Keep eye contact.
  • Listen attentively. Be honest and do not hesitate to say you don’t know the answer to a specific question.
  • You will be asked many questions. Be concise with your answers, but that still includes answering your questions with details. You may give a short summary of who you are and the value you can bring to the organization. Present your skills in positive terms; emphasize your strengths and how they relate to the job. You may be asked about a former employer, or your career goals. Give precise answers.
  • Do not holdback information, or misinform regarding your career.
  • When given a chance, ask why the company is in the hiring cycle, ask about any concerns you might have regarding the position. Remember this is a two-way assessment. Don't forget to ask who you will be reporting to, and how the department works. Don’t ask about salary or benefits in a first interview unless the interviewer initiates the topic
  • Stand, shake hands and thank the interviewer, and ask when you can expect to hear from them again.

After

  • Think about the questions you were asked and how you might improve your answers next time.
  • Evaluate your goals.
  • Follow up in 2-3 weeks if not given a specific time frame, as this will demonstrate your continued interest.
Izmir University of Economics
is an establishment of
izto logo
Izmir Chamber of Commerce Health and Education Foundation.
ieu logo

Sakarya Street No:156
35330 Balçova - İzmir / Turkey

kampus izmir

Follow Us

İEU © All rights reserved.