Tip #1

Put together a portfolio of any notes or letters from managers/bosses, awards, certificates, or other accomplishments that you have had with your current or previous employers. You can be certain that you will be one of the very few candidates that have anything like this prepared. This will help you communicate your skills and abilities to a prospective employer.

Tip #2

Practice interviewing with someone whom you are comfortable. Do this as many times as possible before you start interviewing with companies. Many college career services offices offer mock interviews – take advantage of those opportunities. Learn how to apply your past experiences to the values of Pella Corporation.

Tip #3

Prepare a list of questions for the interviewer. This shows that you have an interest in learning more about the company. Never go to an interview without a list of at least 3 to 5 questions prepared.

Tip #4

Make sure that you research the company completely before your interview. That way you will be familiar with the company’s products, services, markets, and the company culture. Great sources of information are people that have worked for your target company such as interns or co-ops. Your research will help you prepare for questions asked by the company representative.

Tip #5

Many interviewers use a method called behavioral interviewing, which means the interviewer will ask questions about past experiences.  One such question might be:

"Give me an example of a time when you needed to adjust quickly. What did you do and how did it turn out?"

Keep in mind that the interviewer doesn't want to hear your opinion or the way you tend to act. They would like you to think of a specific instance. Therefore responses that begin with "I think", "I believe", "I am" or "I will" are not appropriate. The interviewer will be looking for the following information:

• A brief description of the problem or situation
• Your actions
• Results of your actions

Tip #6

Remember, the company representative would like to hire you for their staffing needs. Their challenge is to predict the likelihood of future success between you and their company. If the company rep can be certain that you will be successful in their company, their recruiting challenge is closer to being accomplished. You can assist them in this challenge by being open and honest about your skills, experiences, dislikes, and ambitions.