Interview Tips/Suggestions

RESEARCH THE COMPANY as much as possible before the interview! Review their company website, press releases, history, patent disclosures/submissions, & leadership profiles. I hear WAY too often that a candidate hasn’t even reviewed the company website & done their homework before the interview – never a good thing!
Be yourself
Actively LISTEN to what they have to say about their needs, the company, projects, etc.
Lots of details are certainly good but don’t overdo it when describing your projects – get to the point quickly but use good strong examples.
Talk specifically to devices and products you’ve designed and projects you’ve managed from start to finish – companies want to know you can take something and get it through the process and out the door!
Portfolio – If you’ve designed devices or parts, bring samples to show or drawings to illustrate your experience. Be careful to NOT bring or share any confidential details, or devices that may still in development.
Hands-On: Everyone wants a hands-on engineer, even for management positions. Be prepared to share specific examples of what you personally contributed to device design, development, testing, etc.
Don’t be afraid to show your Personal Side when appropriate in the interview…companies want someone they can feel comfortable within close proximity day in and day out and have a good time with along the way.
Be Confident, but NOT cocky.
Express an attitude of being Flexible and Adaptable. Companies have ever-changing needs and priorities, so it’s important to show your flexibility and adaptability to situations.
Show that you can stand up for your perspective and ideas, and be able to sell it up and down the chain of command.
DON’T BE NEGATIVE about your current company even if things aren’t going well or if you hate your manager. Every company has issues, and companies want people who can focus on the positive and who know how to deal with it.
ALWAYS: Thank the Interviewers for their time, AND send a “Thank You” email after the interview expressing interest in the position.
Lastly, knock-em dead!