Preparing for an Interview? Read These Professional Tips!

It's a tough market out there so if you get your foot in the door for an interview at a company you've had your heart set on joining, it's time to bone up on your interview protocol. You want to review every part of the process and make sure you're up to the minute when it comes to sitting down with the head of human resources.

The process hasn't really changed much, but the number of outstanding candidates might have. With unemployment into double digit percentages, hundreds applying for each job. The weeding out process starts with your letter of introduction and resume. Software programs can spot key words and consider you a contender or not. However, now that you are already on your way to the interview, here are some tips to make you outshine the others.

First Impressions
The moment you enter the office of the director of human resources you are being scrutinized. Here are some tips to consider.

• Before you speak your appearance speaks for you. You want to be well groomed, professionally attired, bright eyed and bushy tailed! Good posture, a pleasant smile and a calm demeanor will earn you points. Sit upright - do not lean forward onto their desk or slump in your chair.
• Your attitude says a lot about you. Do not be too familiar or cocky. These can often be confused by the candidate as self confidence.
• Remember that an interview is a two way street. Be prepared to answer their questions and ask some. Your homework should have included thoroughly reading up on the company and possibly a little about the person who is interviewing you, if you know who it is in advance.
• At the end of the interview if you are asked it you have any questions have at least one prepared that applies to the company and its industry. Having no questions can be interpreted that you are not that interested.
• A firm handshake and a thank you note are bonus points for you.

Follow Up
If the interviewer has not specified whether they are going to follow up or you should, call back two to three days later to inquire. This also indicates that you are interested in working for their company.

Do you have some interview tips you would like to share? Visit us on Facebook! You might want to check out Nationwide Relocation Services testimonials if you need to move once you're hired.

Blog written by Deborah Desser-Herchan, Nationwide Relocation Services correspondent.