Tip #1. Research the company.

The company’s website is a great first place to start. Read about their mission, vision, customers, and products and services. Also Google the company’s name to see if there is any other helpful information out there, such as news articles.

Tip #2. Match your background to the job description.

Take a look at the job description again and determine how your skills and background match the requirements. For instance, if the job description calls for someone with “plenty of project management experience,” come up with a specific example of a project that you were able to successfully manage. Having a solid track record of success that matches the employer’s needs will impress the interviewer and help you land the job.

#3. Be professional.

It should go without saying, but you should always wear a business suit to an interview. You should also plan ahead so that you have plenty of time to get to the job interview location. In addition, make sure you greet the person interviewing you with a firm handshake and plenty of eye contact. If you’re interviewing with multiple people, make sure you go around the room and shake everyone’s hand.

#4. Be prepared.

The last thing you want to do during a job interview is be unprepared. So bring extra copies of everything you’ve submitted to the employer – even if they didn’t ask you to – such as your resume, a reference list, and samples of your work.

#5. Ask questions about the job and the Northern California company.

You’re not the only one being evaluated in the job interview. You should also be prepared to evaluate the employer. So create a list of questions you’d like answered based on your research of the company. You may also want to ask some additional questions about the following:

• Why the position is open.
• What the turnover rate is like at the company.
• How the company has fared during the recession.
• Whether or not the company has experienced layoffs.
• What the company envisions for its future.

#6. Follow up with the interviewer.

Whether or not you want the Northern California job, always follow up. Send a note or an email to the interviewer thanking him or her for the interview. If you’re still interested in the job after the interview, then reiterate in your note why the company should hire you.

And if you need help getting job interviews, please contact Pacific Staffing. As an experienced Northern California employment agency, we can help you find job opportunities that are a terrific match for your skills and background. Contact us today. We can help.