This may all seem obvious, but it’s amazing how many candidates ask NO questions. When a candidate doesn’t ask questions, I assume (correctly or incorrectly) that either a) they’re not interested enough or b) they’re not prepared. Also, it’s always good to come armed with a few questions because sometimes good questions you have are answered during the course of the interview. But, of course, you still want to have *something* to ask.

I’ve also noticed in interviews that a lot of women (myself included) have the hardest time relaying how qualified they are. Perhaps we feel it’s unbecoming to say “Hey, I’m pretty damn good at what I do.” But — we have to stifle our natural inclination to be modest. An interview is NOT the time to be modest.

What are good questions interviewee’s have asked you? Typically I like to ask about what the position entails, or how soon I’ll be able to participate in new projects, things along that line. I’m also keen on asking them about their day-to-day routine, what kind of activities the office may do outside of regular hours (hikes?). Anything else to add?

3. Always Use Specifics

After sitting on interview committees for a couple positions, I decided this is my one most important rule of interviewing. Don’t make me read between the lines! I don’t want to hire someone if we have to conjecture in our committee meeting about what the person was really saying.

Committee member X: “Well, Candidate A said he had a big part in the design of this webpage. But does that mean, he did just the design or did he translate the design into code as well? Did he do that nice design element on the side?”

Committee member Y: “Shall we take the pessimistic or optimistic route on this one?”

Committee member Nicole: “Why should we conjecture about Candidate A when Candidate B clearly laid out his experience and used specific examples?”

Secondarily, I’d say preparedness is another important one. Being overly prepared is much better than under prepared. An interview is the time to be an overachiever. Not sure if you should create and bring a portfolio piece? Bring it! Research common interview questions in your field and be prepared to answer them.

Also, *always* have at least one question for the interviewer(s). It shows you care and, again, speaks to one’s preparedness.