9. Interviewing

A. Preparing to Interview

· Purchase correspondence paper stock (stationary and matching envelopes).

· Keep enough paper stock on hand to print your resumes, cover letters and other correspondence on matching stationary and envelopes.

· Know the standards for writing cover letters, thank-you letters and when to phone.

· Keep stamps on hand at all times!

· Keep track of all career-related written and verbal correspondence.

· Identify your basic interview wardrobe: select one or two outfits or suits that are considered fairly conservative for your field.

· Locate your local overnight or one-hour dry cleaner.

· Polish your business shoes.

· Always have extra, clean copies of your resume with you.

· Keep on file an interview folder to bring with you on interviews. It should contain: a few resumes in a plastic sleeve, some reminders for yourself about your skills and your goals, and a pen and some paper to make notes before and after the interview.

· Bring to the interview: your interview folder, the names of the people you are meeting and the address with directions. You may also want: a comb, tissues and breath mints.

· Know where you're going in advance.

· Leave yourself plenty of time to get there.

· You want to arrive a little bit early, not just on time and never late.

· Follow up with thank you letters immediately.

· Make sure you can be reached, whether by phone, fax or email.