Interview Advice

Take the viewer through the complete process starting with a statement of the problem to be solved and the criteria for success. Select 2-3 projects to take through the design. Excellent design concept sketches are magical. Show examples of research, proposals, contact reports, etc., if appropriate. You are being judged as well on your presentation and convincing skills.

Be enthusiastic about the position you are interviewing for if you are interested in it, and say you are interested. Ask about next steps. Ask for business cards from the people you meet.

One of the most important criteria by which you are being evaluated is whether or not you will fit into the group. Be prepared to discuss a variety of subjects other than work – music, sports, mystery novels, etc.– especially if you are spending the day with a potential employer or sharing a meal with them.

Confidential information.

Never reveal confidential information about past employers or projects you have worked on.

Communicate simply.

Always use simple language that is easy to understand. This is especially important in multi-lingual situations. Use complete sentences without repeating "like," "ya know," "uh." Speak slowly and clearly but in a natural manner to ensure that you are understood. Avoid jargon and clichés.

Follow up.

Call your recruiter immediately after your meetings while everything is fresh in your mind and give him/her your feedback and impressions. Remember to send targeted (not generic) Thank You notes, describing your understanding of and continued interest in the opportunity and how and why you would be a great fit via email or snail mail to everyone you met. Call or email the interviewer one week after the meeting or whoever you were asked to follow up with, if you do not hear from anyone about next steps or resolution.