Job interview tips, advice, help, etc.

[BrianG]

Depending on the job, I usually dress the way I would if I got the job on the spot and had to start working - maybe a step or two better since it's an interview. It's supposed to give the impression that you are "ready to go right now".

Prepare yourself for the "where do you see yourself in 5 years" types of questions. There really is no "bad" answer, but most places don't want to take the time/money in training you for your specific duties if you give the impression you are just looking for a paycheck and/or are ready to immediately hop over to the next big thing (even though that is really what you are doing). Basically, imply that the company you are interviewing with is a place you've "always wanted to work for", but don't be a kiss-ass.

If you have any real-world experience at all, make sure you get those thoughts in line. Schooling is great, but from my experience in hiring, experience has a greater impact on my choice to hire or not. Some people can be book smart, but fail miserably in the "real world" when applying the skills they learned at the desk (I've had those types of employees so it does happen more often than you'd think). Make sure they know you aren't one of those types. They may also ask you situational questions where something you did in the past could apply somewhat. A few (preferably true) stories where you went above and beyond solving a problem, working extra hard, etc helps too.