Top Ten Interview Tips for Moms Returning to the Work Force

Top Ten Interview Tips

10. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your interview. You never know if you’ll hit traffic or if you’ll have to change a poopy diaper on the way out the door. Plus, if you become friends with the secretary while waiting for your appointment, that’s a good thing. Your interviewer will most likely ask her what she thought of you. 

9. Look your best and look professional. Before your interview, go to the salon and get a haircut, manicure your nails, and plan to arrive well dressed for your appointment. (See “Dos and Don’ts of Interviewing”) 

8. Get an extra hour of sleep…hubby can use some extra time to play with little one anyway. You’ll wake refreshed and alert the next morning, ready for whatever comes your way. 

7. Take a refresher course in your area of expertise just to get you back on track. Even if it’s a one-day course, it will put you in the right frame of mind and get you up to date on anything that may have happened while you were out of the office. 

6. Keep up with the latest news and current events. Knowing what is going on in the world and, specifically in your industry, will keep you in step with all those other youngin’s that didn’t take time off for MommyHood. Let’s face it, sometimes we have to watch cartoons instead of the news. 

5. Don’t be afraid to boast a little...but don’t brag too much! Show your interviewer how good you are with people, tell him about that award you got for meeting your sales quota, and let him know that even though you have these great qualities, you are still willing to learn. 

4. Practice, Practice, Practice. Have a friend or your husband help you get ready for your interview. Have him ask you questions that your interviewer may ask you so you’ll be prepared. (See “Questions to Expect from your Interviewer”)