Our firm maintains a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. Even so, it’s essential that all staff members look, speak, and carry themselves professionally.
With that in mind, here are a dozen hints to help ensure a successful first interview:
1. If you’re not sure where our firm is located and how long it takes to get here, do a dry run ahead of time. Serious candidates don’t show up late or rush in at the last minute. Not only is punctuality an important quality that shows respect, it’s also your first chance to demonstrate an ability to follow instructions.
2. Before arriving, check out our firm, including the Web site and organizational structure. You may also be able to get information from accounting professors, career counselors, or fellow students at your school.
3. You’ve heard the old saying: “You only have one chance to make a good first impression.” We don’t expect you to have an expensive wardrobe straight out of college, but we do like applicants to be dressed appropriately. Translated, that means neat, all buttons in place, shoes in good shape. You may be proud of your flare for individuality, but in the professional world, it’s generally best to keep clothing conservative for interviews.
4. Bring a copy of the resume you submitted in case the interviewer doesn’t have one handy. If it’s been a while since you read through it, take time before your appointment to review what you’ve written about yourself, since this may be a source of questions.
5. Put yourself in the place of the interviewer and practice answering questions based on your resume. You may be asked about some of the challenges you’ve faced dealing with tough clients, colleagues, or fellow students. For example, if your resume states that you are a confident public speaker, be prepared to describe your participation in a debate team or other forum.
6. When you meet interviewers, greet them with a firm handshake and eye contact.
7. Listen to what your interviewer is saying rather than worrying about your next comments. Communication is a vital skill in business and listening is a large part of the equation.
8. Expect some fairly detailed inquiries. Keep in mind that the answers you give will likely lead to more questions, so be prepared to follow up. For example, if you are asked if you like to read, instead of a simple “yes” or “no” answer, tell the interviewer what type of books you like, the last book you read, and why you’re drawn to that genre. Interviewers are often looking for clues that aren’t revealed on your resume.
9. Show that you’re interested in our firm by asking intelligent questions. Stick to topics like the nature of the work, typical duties, and job responsibilities. It’s generally a mistake to ask about salary and perks during an initial meeting. The interviewer may bring these issues up, but they are often a subject for later meetings.
10. You may be an applying for an accounting position, but in an interview, you’re acting as a salesperson. After hearing all the details, if you feel this is the job you want, tell the interviewer you would really like the position and ask for it.
11. In many cases, even if you impress the interviewer, you won’t be offered a job on the spot. Hiring is a process that generally isn’t rushed. So don’t be disappointed if you leave without an offer.
12. After your appointment, it’s a good idea to follow up by sending a brief courteous note, thanking the interviewer for taking time to meet with and consider you. How you deal with people is critical to your success as a professional accountant. Show us that you understand basic business etiquette.