Interviewing Tips

Even the most seasoned professionals get a little nervous when it comes time for a big interview.

So whether it’s interview number one or 101, here are some interviewing tips to help you along the way. And, should you find yourself in an interview with Cargill, these might just help ease the jitters a bit.

Bonus Points

Do – Research the company. Always go into an interview fully prepared to talk about not just yourself, but the company and the industry you’ll be working in.

Do – Be curious about the company’s culture. Seek out information and ask questions to help you decide if your style meshes with the company’s.

Do – Come with a set of questions you want to ask the interviewer about the company and the position. It shows you’ve done your research and that you aren’t willing to take just any job.

Do – Take a pen, pencil and paper. Feel free to take notes, but not to the point that it distracts from your interaction with the interviewer.

Do – Make eye contact and smile. Chin up! Be confident.

Do – Be honest about who you are and what you are looking for.

Do – Ask for business cards from everyone you meet with so you can send thank-you notes the next day.

Do – Say you want the job. It’s good to show enthusiasm and genuine interest in the company and the position.

Do – Dress like you already work there. Come to the interview dressed as professionally as the people working in the company.

Minor Deductions

Don’t – Talk about salary, vacation or benefits packages during your interview. There will be plenty of time for that after you’ve landed the job.

Don’t – Use flattery in an interview. Just be yourself and be sincere.

Don’t – Use one-word answers. Elaborate all of your points with a few sentences in a way that lets the interviewer get to know you. But don’t ramble.

Don’t – Interrupt. Let the interviewer finish their question before you begin to answer.

Don’t – Assume your resume is doing the work for you. Often interviewers haven’t had time to read over your resume, or it’s been awhile since they’ve seen it. Sell yourself and your credentials.

Don’t – Ask the interviewer personal questions. “Are you married?” “Do you have any kids?” If they are your direct supervisor, there will be time to get to know them after you get the position.

Don’t – Be late! Even if you know where the interview is, do a practice run beforehand at approximately the same time of day so you can allow for traffic delays.

Don’t – Take yourself too seriously, or too lightly. We all think we have a great sense of humor, but everyone finds different things funny. Use humor appropriately.