Mastering the On-Site Interview

Written by: Danny Chesla

The on-site interview is one of final determining processes in landing a job. One has managed to successfully peak the interest of the potential employer most likely at a career event. In order to have an impressive on-site interview one must think about these things, preliminary arrangements, preparation, informal social event/interview, meals and drinks, corporate culture and fit, and day of interviews.

Preliminary arrangements- Once you've received the invitation for the on-site visit, your first test is one of successfully dealing with the travel arrangements and arriving to the employer's office safely -- and on time. Every company handles travel arrangements differently, so make sure you clearly understand the procedures and arrangements before you leave for the visit.

Preparation- You thought you had to know a lot about the company for the initial interview? Well, you now need to become even more of an expert. Spend time researching the company by examining the company's annual reports, company Websites, and external sources of information.

Informal social event/interview- Whether it's the night before or the evening afterwards, an informal social event designed for casual conversation is almost always part of the company visit agenda. Employers see this as a time to see how well you seem to fit with their current mix of employees -- and you should take advantage of the event to see how this group fits with you.

Meals and drinks- You can usually expect one or more meals during your on-site visit. A time to relax and pig out? Hardly. These "breaks" from interviewing should be seen as just another interview, in which your manners, poise, conversation skills, and judgment may be evaluated. Make sure you know proper dining etiquette.

Corporate culture and fit-An on-site interview is also a great chance for you to really get a snapshot of the organization's corporate culture. The corporate culture is the environment or personality of an organization; it dictates acceptable business practices, the treatment of employees, and much more.

Day of interviews-Make sure you get a good night's rest before the big day of interviews. You will often meet with multiple groups of people, from potential coworkers, to managers and executives. Be prepared for different types of interviews and different style of interviewers. 

For more on-site interview tips visit http://www.quintcareers.com/mastering_onsite_interviews.html