15-Point Job Interview Checklist

Whatever job you're seeking, it's almost certain you'll have to have an interview.

Doing your best at an interview is obviously very important - it can mean the difference between getting the job you want and not getting it!

Depending on the type of job you're applying for, the interview may be formal or informal. It may take a few minutes or a few hours.

Before you head out for your interview, go over the following job interview checklist. It has 15 top tips for interview success.

Job Interview Checklist

1. Make sure you know exactly where the interview will take place. If you are not sure, find the location before the day of your interview
2. Get enough sleep the night before
3. Arrive 15 minutes early
4. Dress appropriately for the interview. Wear neat, clean, conservative job interview clothes
5. Bring at least 5 copies of your resume, plus your list of references
6. Be polite, relaxed, and friendly
7. Show your self-confidence and your enthusiasm in your posture and your voice
8. Describe your skills, but don’t exaggerate. Give examples of how you used your skills in previous jobs and how they will relate to the job you’re applying for. See Examples of Skills Statements below
9. Let the interviewer do at least half the talking
10. Answer questions thoroughly but briefly
11. Do not say anything bad about your present or former supervisors, employers, or co-workers. It will only reflect badly on you
12. Think of good interview questions to ask about the Company and the job
13. Express your desire for the job
14. Make a strong closing statement and thank the interviewer for the interview
15. Write a note to every person on the interview team, thanking him or her for the time and consideration. Briefly restate your qualifications for and interest in the job

Interview Don'ts

Following the job interview checklist above will keep you on the right track. Here are some things that can derail you!

• Don't chew gum during your interview
• Don't leave your cell phone or pager on
• Don't interrupt the interviewer
• Don't talk at length about your personal life
• Do not lie about yourself, your skills, or your experience

Examples of Skills Statements

Example #1:

I am an excellent writer. I am skilled at presenting technical information in language that is easy to read and understand. In my former position, I re-wrote the policy and procedures manual in plain language so everyone could understand it. I would apply the same writing skills to the marketing position at your company.

Example #2:

I am very good at getting people to work together as a team. In every job I have held I have gathered a group of people together to accomplish a task. For example, in my last job I was the team leader for a group assigned to re-design the materials handling operation. I have the knack for keeping a team on target to deliver quality results on schedule. That’s a skill I can use anywhere.

What Interview Questions To Expect

Our job interview checklist will help ensure you make a good and lasting impression on your interviewers. As part of your preparation, take time to think about the kind of job interview questions you'll be asked. To get you started here's a list of 38 sample interview questions.

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