Well- developed interview skills can be the difference between receiving an offer and receiving a rejection letter. That is why Careers In Tax created the interview knowledgebase.

  1. How should I prepare for the interview?
    Before you interview, learn as much as you can about the company. There are several places to start including the company’s website, annual report, and online research resources such as Hoover’s. The more prepared you are, the more intelligent questions you can ask. Prepare a list of several questions you can ask during the interview. These questions will help you decide if the company can offer you the growth and development you seek, and will also indicate to the interviewer that you are interested in the position.

    Also prepare by determining how your skills and abilities can benefit the company. Think in more detail than your resume and make notes as to the attributes you’d like to sell during the interview. Anticipate questions the interviewer is likely to ask, and prepare your answers to them. Role play answering the questions so you are articulate and prepared.
  2. How early should I arrive?
    Arrive for the interview 10-15 minutes early. If you are unfamiliar with the company’s location, allow extra travel time for wrong turns and traffic. While you are waiting for the interviewer, be courteous and respectful to the receptionist. Although not involved in the actual interview, they may be asked to give their impression of you.
  3. What should I wear?
    Try to determine the dress code of the company and go one step dressier. If you are unable to determine this information, it’s best to err on the safe side and wear conservative business attire, i.e. suit and tie for men, suit with skirt or slacks for women. Being well-groomed is a given. On a related note, turn your cell phone off before entering the interview.
  4. I hear a great deal about non-verbal communication. What do I need to know?
    First of all, have a firm, but not overpowering, handshake. Maintain good eye contact. Exhibit good posture whether standing or sitting. Be conscious of your physical presentation when sitting.
  5. How do I sell my abilities during the interview?
    First, be careful to display confidence, not arrogance. Answer questions with more than a “yes” or “no”. This is your opportunity to sell yourself and display your communication skills. Discuss you abilities and how they can benefit the position and the company. Don’t make blanket statements - be specific. Be ready to backup what you say with examples. For instance, specific tax savings you obtained, or specific ways you handled situations that ultimately benefited your employer. An area often overlooked by candidates is showing excitement and enthusiasm about the position. When two candidates have equal qualifications and experience, almost invariably the enthusiastic candidate will receive the offer.
  6. What kinds of questions should I ask?
    Nothing spells interview failure quicker than not asking questions. Remember, interviewing is a two-way street. The company is trying to determine if you are the right person for the job, and you are trying to determine if the company and job are right for you. Some questions might include questions about why the position is open, growth and expansion plans of the company, and advanced training opportunities. You might also ask the interviewer why he or she joined the company, what they like best about working there, and what they would want you to accomplish in your first year on the job. In the event you are interviewing with more than one person in the company, be sure to ask questions of each interviewer. You can ask variations of the same questions. Their variety of answers can help you gain additional insight into the company and the position, and your questions will continue to demonstrate your interest in the position.
  7. How do I handle questions regarding negative aspects of my qualifications?
    Honestly acknowledge your shortcomings but try to end on a positive note. For instance, if there is a question about your lack of sales and use tax experience within a specific industry segment, discuss industry segments in which you have had experience. If the issue pertains to something you are working to improve, such as further training, certification, college degree, etc., communicate the steps you are taking to address the concern.
  8. How should I handle salary questions?
    A good rule of thumb for a candidate to follow is never discussing salary, vacation or benefits during a first interview. If the interviewer pursues the issue, let them know that you are interested in the position from an opportunity and challenge standpoint. With that in mind, you would expect them to offer a salary appropriate with your experience and the demands of the position.
  9. How should I handle questions about gaps in my employment?
    This is definitely an area of questioning you will have prepared for prior to the interview. Give clear, reasonable and truthful answers without going into excessive detail. If the gap spans several years, as might be the case if you were home with young children, give examples of what you have done to keep current in your field.
  10. What should I say when the interview is coming to a close?
    Thank the interviewer, of course. Express your interest in the position and in the company. Inquire about the next step in the interview process.
  11. Is it really necessary to send a “thank you” letter?
    Yes! This is your final opportunity to market yourself and set a good impression. Send the thank you through traditional mail or email. If you interviewed with more than one person, send a personalized letter to each person, varying the contents of each one.