Tips for a Successful Interview and Follow-Up

First impressions with an employer are important. Whether your interview is in person, by telephone or by video, it's the best time to put yourself forward and prove that you're the ideal candidate.

To stack the odds in your favour, make sure your attire is professional and appropriate for the position.

Details can make a difference and help you look your best. Here are a few examples:

• Avoid chewing gum
• Be on time. Even arrive 5 to 10 minutes early
• Turn off your cell phone
• Try to maintain good posture
• Pay attention to your body language (avoid crossing your arms, for example).

The interview is a professional discussion between you and the employer. So it's important to have a positive attitude and to be polite and confident.

When you arrive, say hello to the people who will be interviewing you. Introduce yourself and be polite. If it is a face-to-face interview, give them a firm handshake with a smile.

Let the interviewers lead the discussion. When they ask you questions, take the time to think carefully about your answers. If you don't understand, don't hesitate to ask them to repeat themselves or ask for clarification.

Look people in the eye and answer questions calmly. Speak positively and emphasize your strengths and skills.

Don't forget to thank everyone present before the end of the interview. If it is a face-to-face interview, be sure to shake hands.

During the interview, the employer may ask you why you are interested in the position. Think of an answer that highlights your experience and skills, while relating them to what the employer is looking for.

You may be asked if you have any questions at the end of the interview. This is a good time to reiterate your interest by expressing your curiosity about the position on offer. You can ask questions such as:

• Why are you interested in hiring someone?
• How many people are on the team?
• What does a typical day look like?
• What are your team's big upcoming projects?
• What will be the next step?

When the interview is over, you can review how your discussion with the employer went. Ask yourself what went well and what can be improved.

Think about the impression you left. If you feel you didn't come across well, think about what you could do better next time.

Make a note of the questions you had the most difficulty answering. You can then take the time to rework your answers.

This evaluation will give you an idea of your strengths and areas for improvement.

Resources are available to help you prepare for an interview, including employability services organizations or assistance officers are available from your local Services Québec offices.

If the employer specified when he or she would call, make sure you are available at any time that day to take the call. If you haven’t heard from the employer by the end of the day, call him or her to follow up.

If the employer didn’t specify the day, wait two weeks and then call the employer to find out when you can expect a response. You can also send a thank you letter or email. Doing so may help you stand out from the other applicants.

If you get the job, thank the person and mention how much you look forward to joining the team. This is when the employer will tell you your work schedule and salary.

You can take advantage of this opportunity to ask for more information about the new position:

• When do I start?
• Where and when should I report on the first day?
• Whom should I ask for?
• Do I need to bring any special work materials or clothing?

If you don’t get the job, find out why the employer didn't select you. You'll be able to reassess your performance at the interview and improve your approach.