Interview Tips

Navigating your way through the interview process

An interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to us, so it pays to be well-prepared.

We compiled a few guidelines for you to follow in order to make your interview process stress-free and a pleasant experience.

Interview Preparation

  1. You are required to bring the following items with you to your interview session (you may be asked to provide legible photocopies as well):
    a. At least two forms of government-issued identification
    b. Diploma or transcripts from high school, college or GED Certificate
    c. Job-specific certifications and/or licenses (front and back views)
  2. Organize all of your paperwork in a folder or binder.
    TIP: Remember looking organized and prepared can be key in landing the job.
  3. Decide early on appropriate interview attire. We highly recommend professional/business attire.
    TIP: Professional/business attire is also recommended if you are flying on our behalf to an interview.
  4. Bring a notepad and pen, these are needed so you can jot down questions that come up during the interview process.
    TIP: You will need a pen to sign interview paperwork.
  5. Research the company; this action will help you make an educated decision when the time comes to accept an offer that may be extended to you.
  6. Arrange any time off needed from work, school or other commitments.
    TIP: It is OK to ask the interview scheduler the anticipated time needed for the interview process, this will help you in determining how much time you need to take off.

Interview Travel

  1. Make sure you know how to get to the interview location.

TIP: Accommodate time in your commute for traffic or other delays.

  1. Plan on arriving at least 15-30 minutes before the interview.
  2. If you are an out-of-town applicant, you may be provided with a travel pass on American Airlines or American Eagle; pass type may vary by position you applied to.
  3. If you were provided a travel pass, you will be provided all necessary flight, shuttle and hotel information (if applicable) prior to your travel date; ensure you print all documents and prepare to bring these items during your travel. Any expenses incurred will be at your expense.

TIP: Travel information documents and letters are sent to you via email, it is important to verify your email address with the recruiter or interview scheduler to ensure successful delivery.

TIP: Always check SPAM folders for email.

  1. When traveling by air for your interview, learn the quickest and safest route to your scheduled departure airport. Research your departure airport’s parking situation as well.
    TIP: When planning your commute time to the airport, take into account time needed for parking and getting through the TSA security lines.
  2. Local applicants should be prepared for all traffic delays on your way to the interview location.
    TIP: When scheduling your interview be sure to repeat the address of the interview location to ensure when mapping the route you are getting accurate directions.

TIP: Ask your recruiter or interview scheduler about parking at the location, you may need to accommodate parking in your commute time.

The Interview

  1. Check in with the appropriate company representative.
  2. Remember to turn your cell phone off, an interview is not the place you want your cell phone ringing.

TIP: Keep your cell phone safely secured in a location out of the interview room to avoid accidentally forgetting to turn it off.

  1. Maintain a relaxed and positive attitude, this isn’t about being overly friendly or casual, it’s about feeling comfortable and confident.
  2. Listen to the interview question being asked and answer thoroughly. If you are in a group interview setting, you don’t have to race to answer first.
  3. Speak in a normal, clear and conversational tone.

TIP: It is OK to ask the interviewer to restate the question.

  1. Be forthcoming with information.
  2. Be respectful of other interviewees if in a group interview setting; wait for the person to completely finish their answer before jumping in.
    TIP: It is OK to agree with someone else’s answer, but make it your own and offer elaboration to your answer, this will help the interviewer distinguish your response from someone else and it shows your individualism.
  3. Thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you and ask how information about the hiring decision will be communicated.

TIP: Wait until the end of the interview to ask questions, most interviewers will let you know when they are ready for your questions.