INTERVIEW STRATEGIES - THE BASICS

• Research the company - Researching the company enables you to make a more informed interview presentation. Being knowledgeable about the company conveys interest and enthusiasm to potential employers. It demonstrates thoroughness, creativity and readiness to work. Research the company's product structure and financial standing. Learn about company strategies and goals and research Senior Management biographies. Important relevant information can usually be gathered from sources including company web sites, business libraries, trade publications, annual reports, etc.
• Be punctual - Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early for the interview. A last minute or late arrival may send a negative message to the potential employer.
• A good firm handshake - A firm grip, with a brief yet brisk handshake while looking directly into the interviewer's eyes, will provide a powerful, lasting impression.
• Dress professionally - Whether you are interviewing with CitiGroup, or a start-up company, it is always a good idea to wear conservative business attire to the first interview. The potential employer will make recommendations for more casual clothing (if that is company policy) for subsequent interviews.
• Be prepared for traditional and/or unusual interview rules - While most banks utilize traditional interview formats, some do not. Be prepared to be flexible and adaptable to any interview arrangement, no matter how unusual it may seem. Your flexibility may prove to be the primary reason the position is offered to you.
• Allow sufficient time for the interview - More than likely, you will be interviewed by more than one hiring manager. Allow yourself, and the company, adequate time to present your qualifications.
• Body language - Portray confidence by maintaining good posture and looking directly into the eyes of the interviewer. Smile whenever it is appropriate. Convey faith in your skills by keeping eye contact and answering questions in a clear, succinct manner.
• Be prepared to adjust your style and/or answers to the interviewer. Adjust your responses to the interviewer's style and knowledge. It is beneficial to respond to questions in layman's terms for some interviewers and more technical terms for others.
• Prepare a list of closing questions - Having a prepared list of job-related questions shows the prospective employer that you are taking your candidacy seriously. The questions should relate to aspects of the position that were not covered during the interview (job responsibilities, career potential, a review of employees who previously held the position, their performance strengths and weaknesses, where they are today, etc.) Avoid questions that relate to salary, benefits, vacation time, etc.