Note: Our tips are for people who may not be acquainted with American interview customs. If you would like additional advice or a consultation with one of our professionals, click here to find out more!

Be on time. If you don't know the exact location of the interview, check it out before the day of your interview. If you drive, investigate the parking situation ahead of time.

Wear appropriate attire. Even if the job you’re applying for doesn’t require business attire, dressing formally will help you feel more confident and professional.

Shake hands. In the United States, it is customary to shake hands at the beginning and end of the interview. A weak, limp, or half-hearted handshake may give the interviewer the impression that you lack focus or enthusiasm.

Make eye contact. In American culture, eye contact is a sign that you are a good listener, interested, assertive, and confident that you are the right person for the job. It is important to maintain eye contact when you are listening and responding to an interviewer.

Do your research. When applying for a job with a company, do a little research on the Internet or at your local library to find out about the products and services offered by the company. The things you learn may never come up during your interview but that background knowledge will help you tailor your answers to fit the company profile.

"Me" Questions.
Before you interview with a company, you should at least know the salary range offered, especially if you have a particular figure in mind.

"You" Questions. Asking questions about the company will let the employer know you're interested in the position. When you are researching the company, come up with a few questions to ask the interviewer.

Be confident. A firm, confident handshake and maintaining eye contact are seen as signs of telling the truth and attentiveness.

Be articulate.

Focus. Focus on the positive experience you have gained from previous jobs. Whatever you say about previous jobs, don't talk badly about previous employers, even if you feel it's justified. Save your diatribes against employers for your friends and relatives.

Prepare. Interviewers often ask about your personal interests, weaknesses, and past achievements. When answering these questions, word choice is very important. For example, listing ‘travel’ as interest may give the impression that you will want a lot of time off.

Practice. Everyone gets nervous about interviews! Ask a friend to ask you typical interview questions (you can find many lists on the Internet). Practice your responses; make eye contact, use a good speaking voice, and ask informed questions about the company.

If you would like additional advice or a consultation with one of our professionals, click here to find out more!