777 Garner Road East
Ancaster, ON L9K 1J4
T. 905.649.2139 x 4224
F. 905-648.2134
redeemer.ca/celc
JOB INTERVIEW CHECKLIST
PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW
Crafting Your Responses
Compare what they want (job posting) to what you have (accomplishment statements)
Research the company (more detailed than you did for a cover letter)
General Tips
Keep responses to 1-3 minutes
Vocal qualities (pacing, pitch/tone, word choice, think before speaking)
Body Language (handshake, eye contact, posture, expressions and gestures)
Listen carefully and ask for clarity when needed before responding
NOTES FOR SPECIFIC INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Provide some insights into who you are beyond being a job seeker
Share a story to give context of relevant accomplishments
Connect past experiences to being prepared for this opportunity
Greatest Strengths
Describe two or three skills
Provide supporting examples/evidence
Improvements/Weaknesses
Be specific and honest, yet avoiding primary functions of the role
Speak in terms of improvement, not a weakness
Behavioural (past) or Situational (hypothetical future)
Context: Outline the problem, obstacle, or assigned task
Action: Describe specific steps to approach the situation
Result: Identify the outcome and what you learned
Prepare five questions before the interview; use only two or three
You Could Ask
What to expect: company culture, typical day or week
Impact of current events on company/department
Important problems to solve or challenges to overcome in the role
You Must Ask (Last Question)
Next steps in hiring process: when will you hear, who will contact whom
Do Not Ask
Salary/benefits (wait for offer)
Questions you could have easily googled (you should have done this already)
WELL IN ADVANCE
Record yourself answering questions. Watch and critique your vocal qualities and body language, as well
as the content of your responses. Adjust and repeat until you feel more comfortable and confident.
FINAL 24 HOURS BEFORE THE INTERVIEW
Bring your references page and extra copies of your resume
Plan interview logistics: directions, parking, office location
Confirm the interview time
Learn names of interviewers (when possible)
Plan interview attire that is appropriate
Allow for a good night's sleep
Best personal hygiene (be mindful of strong scents)
Arrive 10-15 minutes early
Greet everyone with a smile
DURING THE INTERVIEW
Calm your nerves as best you can: think of it as a conversation
Take time to breathe and think about your responses
Focus on the 3-5 concepts you have set out to share about what you can do for them
Ask the good questions you prepared ahead of time
AFTER THE INTERVIEW
Reflect on the interview experience: what went well and what you can adjust for future interviews?
Follow up with customized thank you note within 24 hours
In your note you should:
Express your appreciation
Articulate your continued interest and enthusiasm
Recap your key strengths
Mention something memorable from your interview
Thank them for the interview