In interview preparation, the first thing to put in your mind is the necessary credentials to be taken along with. this will paint a picture that you value your credentials in that you are always on the alert when it comes to issues like this.
1. 75% of the verbal content of the interview will be forgotten within an hour of the candidate's departure. What remains is the overall impression, documents submitted, and a few notes.
2. Arrive at least 10 minutes early; spend the previous day in the community if possible.
3. Dress appropriately .e.g. As an engineer you should dress like one.
your dress code should really paint a picture of your profession
4. Carry an attractive portfolio. It provides a tidy, efficient place to store questions you may want to ask, information about yourself you want to be sure to transmit, a place to carry additional resumes for distribution to department heads, search committees, and others you may meet who have not seen your resume.
5. Do your homework on the institution. You should receive a packet of information about the library after the interview has been arranged. If you don't, ask for one. Then go after other information.
* Review annual reports, mission statements, long/short range planning documents
* Learn something about the institution/community
o Public library -- community strengths/problems, levels/history of library support, financial and otherwise
o Academic library -- level/history of institutional support, strengths/weaknesses of collection, history/direction of institution
* Talk to colleagues, friends, fellow alumni who are/have been connected to the institution
* Visit informally ahead of time if possible
6. Prepare/practice responses to likely questions.
7. If you have to do a formal presentation, be well prepared. Inform the search committee/employer, know in advance of any computer/technical support you will need.
8. You should take the opportunity to ask questions about the entire work environment, interviewing the interviewer by asking about the relationship between the library/users/administration, the kinds of organizational change that have occurred in the last 5 years, and what makes the institution a challenging and enjoyable place to work.
9. Your ability to ask straightforward, insightful questions lets the interviewer understand your perspective and concerns, as well as your judgment and analytical ability.
10. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
* In front of a mirror
* With an audience of friends/colleagues
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