After having spent nearly 10 years as a wife and mother (a "career path" I chose right out of college), I suddenly found myself single and unemployed with children to support, no professional experience, and very little self-confidence. As fate would have it, I began a journey into the scary world of dating again, as well as seeking employment. As I look back on that time (one that had a happy conclusion), I recognize a great deal of similarity between the two experiences.
I offer this simple analogy for your consideration - The Job Interview: A Blind Date From Hell! Think about it and follow along.
Decide what to wear. You want to consider the image you are hoping to project and the audience you are trying to attract. Do not believe those who recommend always wearing a suit to an interview. A corporate management position? Yes to a suit. A warehouse worker? Then dress one-step-above what you would on the job (slacks and loafers versus jeans and sneakers). A good rule of thumb is to always dress "one-step-above" and make sure you "look" like someone who fits in. (Looking like a dowdy housewife may get you a job cleaning houses, but not a management job -- or even a date!)
Prepare. Find out as much as you can about the company in advance. How long have they been in business? Who are their customers? What is important to them? Who do you know that has worked there who can give you some inside tips? (Would you really go on a blind date without finding out about the person in advance?)
Come up with some questions to ask during the interview. The most interesting dates I ever had were with people who appeared to be interested in ME and what I wanted versus how they could get their needs met. Employers have job openings because they have needs. Find out what those needs are and show your interest in fulfilling them. Do not make the employer carry the whole conversation by only providing "yes-no" answers and do not monopolize the conversation by talking incessantly about yourself.
