The Trump Card by Ivanka Trump

Tips from Ivanka

Tips for Interviews

Before the Interview

1. Google yourself. What do you find? Don’t think that the company won’t do the same thing. Set your
internet profiles to private. Make sure the only people who can see your Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace
pages are the people you intend to see them. Remember that your first impression happens before you even
walk in the door.

2. Now Google the company. These days almost every company has a website, and a Google search will turn
up dozens of articles about the business. Learn how the company is structured, so you can speak
knowledgeably about where you might fit into that corporate structure. The more research you do about the
position, the better you’ll be prepared.

During the Interview:

3. Dress the part. What you wear will have “first impression” written all over it – so choose wisely and sell the
image you want. An interview is a formal process, so dress accordingly.

4. Arrive early and prepared. Arriving early sends a powerful signal that you’re organized and grateful for the
opportunity, traits every employer seeks in a young hire. Don’t forget a few copies of your résumé. Place them
in a 9-x-12-inch envelope beforehand. That way you’ll be able to produce the document in a smooth, confident
manner.

5. Be aware of body language. Maintain eye contact and a confident posture. Avoid nervous mannerisms.
Don’t fidget, tap your feet, or play with your face or hair.

6. Stay on topic. Be direct in answering the question. Don’t babble on or veer off course. Be friendly and
outgoing, but don’t tell jokes or flirt with the interviewer. Don’t be afraid to pause and think about a question
before answering. Remember sometimes less is more.

7. Be positive. Never badmouth a boss or company you previously worked for. It’s unprofessional. Show your
eagerness for working in the position you are applying for, and emphasize the skills you have that will directly
transfer to the job.

8. Have your questions ready. Be armed with at least one thoughtful question going into each interview. It
doesn’t have to be too complex or revealing, but it should demonstrate that you have a basic understanding of
the dynamics of the firm.

9. Be mindful of the interviewer’s time. Ideally, a candidate does about 80 percent of the talking, but don’t
overstay your welcome by continuing to chat. You can often get a good read on this with a simple statement
such as “You must be terribly busy. I don’t want to take up too much of your afternoon”.

After the Interview:

10. Make a good final impression. Be sure to thank your interviewer for the opportunity. And remember, a
follow-up thank-you note is always appropriate.