Interview Tips for Technical Opportunities
Dress
You always want to look professional on an interview. Dress in a clean, pressed business suit, no matter how relaxed the office atmosphere. Too casual of an appearance will show the interviewer that you are not taking the opportunity seriously.
Do your homework
There is no excuse for showing up to an interview without researching the company. Go to the company's website, read press releases, take a look at the products. Also, research the company's competitors. See what other companies in the industry are doing.
Be prepared to ask a question about the company. Not only will it help you really understand what the company is doing, you will have something to ask when the interviewer inevitably asks "Do you have any questions for us?" Make sure it's not a question where the answer is easily available with basic research.
Be prepared
Go to the interview knowing why you are qualified for the position. Make a list of your qualifications and accomplishments to enforce the reasons you are a good candidate. Bring extra hard copies of your resume, a writing pad, and a pen.
Attitude
You want to show that you are confident in your skills, but you don't want to come across as arrogant. Make sure to give a firm handshake and look the interviewer in the eye while talking and while listening.
Be Positive
Don't discuss negative experiences you have had with other companies, managers, or colleagues. There is always a positive spin to a negative situation, but always be honest.
Know when to speak and when to listen
It is important that you listen carefully to the interviewer. Listen to the question being asked and answer it directly and concisely. Do not go overboard. Many interviews go badly when an interviewee oversells their skills. Feel free to ask for clarification if you don't understand the question.
Salary and Benefits
Never discuss salary in the first interview. If the interviewer brings up the issue of salary, just let her know that you are open to fair offers. You may be asked your current salary. Make sure you do not "fluff" your salary, as you may be expected to hand in W2s for proof.
Keep questions about fringe benefits until after the offer has been extended. You don't want to discuss sick days or office perks in the initial interview stages.
Keep it focused
Never give the interviewer the impression that you are using this opportunity as a stepping stone to future positions. Talk only about the position at hand. This includes other opportunities outside the company. For instance, don't mention that Bed and Breakfast you'd like to open up in a few years.
Close the deal
Sell yourself. You're your greatest ally. Know why you want the job and convey that to the interviewer. Thank them for their time at the end of the interview. Make sure to find out what the next step is in the interview process.
It is essential that you write a thank you to each and every person you interviewed with. Do this immediately after your interview. Make sure you know the proper spelling of the name of everyone you interviewed with.