Interview Quick Tips

Thank-You Salutations

When writing an interview thank-you note, do you find yourself stuck on whether to use a formal ("Dear Ms. Jones:") or informal ("Dear Lisa:") salutation? If the work environment is ultra-corporate or the hiring manager is in a high position of authority, use a formal salutation. If the environment is casual and/or the hiring manager would be more of a peer, use an informal salutation. Follow any stated preferences, such as if the hiring manager suggests using her first name. When in doubt, use a formal salutation.

Check in During Interviews

Some of your best stories probably take time to detail, but your initial interview answers should be brief. Check in with the interviewer after two minutes and prompt an invitation to go on. Say something like, "Now that I've described the outcome of my work on that project, would you like to hear about my role in detail?"

Answer Briefly

When it comes to talking during an interview, sometimes less is more. As a general rule, you should speak one-third of the time and definitely no more than half of the time. The best interviews have a give-and-take atmosphere. To do this, you need to ask questions and try to draw out your interviewer rather than talking about yourself nonstop. When it's your turn to speak, don't hesitate to tout yourself -- just remember to stop talking after you do.

It's OK to Be Nervous

Not only is it OK to be nervous about an interview, but it is essential for you to accept how you feel. Telling yourself you should feel differently than you do is unrealistic and just makes you feel bad about yourself. What's the worst that can happen at an interview? For many, it would be not getting an offer. Did you ever think that maybe the job wasn't right for you? Try to look at the process as a learning experience.

Emotional Prep

Preparing emotionally for the interview is as important as researching the company. The right mood helps you perform at your best. Try these suggestions for preparing emotionally: get moving -- go for a walk, run, exercise, meditate, do yoga, stretch, dance, something -- activity gets blood flowing to your brain; sing your favorite song while driving to the interview; repeat an inspirational phrase aloud that's meaningful for you; or simply remember a time when you felt terrific.

Explain Why You Left

Follow these guidelines when interviewers ask, "Why did you leave (or are you seeking to leave) your company?" Succinctly describe the reason for your departure, and don't go into details unless asked. Provide references to support your reasons for leaving and job performance. Stay with the facts of what happened, what you did, how you felt and what you learned. Then describe how you will handle things differently in the future.