Preparing for a Second Round Interview

• Confirm the date, time, location, and who you should ask for on your arrival.

• Make any necessary travel arrangements. If traveling out of the area, will the company make reservations for you?

• Keep any receipts. Some medium and large sized companies may pay your expenses.

• Research the company ahead of time. The employer will expect you to be very familiar with them.

• Study the job description and know exactly what you are interviewing for.

• Bring extra copies of your resume, transcripts, references, and all employer forms that you have been asked to complete.

• Bring at least five questions to ask, see “Questions to Ask Employers,” p. 51. Develop lists of different questions tailored to who you are meeting with (e.g., you can ask a human resources representative questions about the company culture whereas you can ask a potential coworker more detailed questions about job responsibilities).

• Be prepared to answer the same question several times. During the day you will most likely meet with several people: your potential supervisor, coworkers and a human resources representative. They may ask you the same questions. Be enthusiastic, honest, and consistent in your answers.

• Remember that you are always being evaluated. In group activities and during meals, your ability to work with people and your “fit” in the organization is being observed.

• Remember that the interview is a two-way street. Be observant. What is the atmosphere like? Are employees friendly?

• Remember to ask when you can expect to hear from the employer again. If the employer does not respond within that time, you may phone or email the person who interviewed you to ask about your status.

• Know what to do if you receive an offer on the spot. In most cases, it’s better to think about the offer before accepting or declining. If you do receive a verbal offer and are not ready to make a decision, ask for written confirmation and tell the firm when you expect to make a decision. Maintain communication with the firm.

• After your visit, send a thank-you letter within one or two days to the person in charge of your visit with copies to the others involved. You should mention what you appreciated from the day’s activities and your interests in both the job and the organization. A week after sending the letter, you may