jsync | Java Staffing Specialist

Interview Checklist

12/01/2004

by Dave Fecak

You’ve landed the big interview – congratulations! In all of the excitement of the interview process, it is easy to forget some very simple steps that everyone should take to make ensure that everything will go smoothly. Here are a few pre-interview and post-interview checklists that account for all the things you need to think about.

The days before the interview

1. Get as much information as you can about the technical environment by doing research, visiting the website, reviewing the job description, and talking to your recruiter. Brush up on any technologies that you are less familiar with – chances are you won’t be experienced in every single technology on the requirement. Look up any buzzwords you don’t recognize, so if asked you can at least acknowledge that you have read about the concept even if you have no real-world experience.
2. Make sure you have the basic details confirmed – where are you going and who should you ask for when you get there? Who are you meeting with and what is their role in the company? What is the preferred dress code? (NOTE: Some companies actually prefer that you dress business casual, so make sure to ask)
3. Many companies ask you to fill out an application and other relevant documents before the interview – find out if this is the case and if so get those completed before interview day. And make sure to print out resumes and directions.

The day of the interview

1. Things to bring to the interview: at least three copies of your resume (and references if requested), a pen and paper (important), the application and other necessary documents, directions and names of your interviewers.
2. Before you leave the interview: make sure to get the names of all the people you met with, and if possible their business cards and e-mail addresses.

After the interview

1. If you are working with a recruiter, call him/her as soon as possible after the interview. It is strategically advantageous for the recruiter to hear from you before he/she hears from the company.
2. Immediately after leaving the interview, take some detailed notes on the conversations you had with each individual or group. The more detail the better.
3. Thank you notes! We usually recommend about six sentences that should include the following details: thank the person for the time and opportunity, express your interest in the position and company, refer to a specific topic or moment in the interview that you think was very positive (bring back the warm and fuzzy feelings), mention what in your background and experience would be of specific value to you being successful in the position, and a close that lets them know you are looking forward to hearing their response.

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