You’ve received a call and scheduled an interview. What should you do now?  Interviewing can be intimidating and overwhelming. Many people make the mistake of not preparing for an interview.  Taking a little time to prepare will help you feel more confident at the time of the interview.  The interview is a chance for CSED to get to know you, and for you to get to know the agency. Basic information about our office can alleviate some of the stress of the unknown. You can learn more about the agency on our website, childsupport.alaska.gov. Make a list of questions to ask at the interview about working at CSED. Review the following information for additional tips to help prepare you for the interview.

Preparing for the Interview

Step 1: Review the recruitment and your Workplace Alaska profile or resume.

• A few days before the interview, refresh your memory about the positions you held in the past.  It will make it easier to answer questions in the interview if you have recently identified the responsibilities you've had in those positions.

Step 2: Research common interview questions and practice interviewing.

• Make a list of interview questions and come up with answers.  Think of examples or answers you can use.
• Come up with examples of the duties you had with your current and previous employers.
• Identify times you excelled and times you struggled in positions.
• Ask a friend or family member to interview you and give feedback.
• Record yourself.  Then listen to the recording, and identify areas you need to improve.

Step 3: Review and prepare any additional information or documentation required at the time of the interview.

Day of the Interview

• If possible, dress professionally for the interview.
• Ensure you have provided all the required documents, or take the physical documents with you to the interview.
• Give yourself plenty of time to arrive so you will be on time for the interview.

The Interview

• It is expected that you will be nervous.  The interview panel will do their best to put you at ease - we are happy to see you!
• It is always acceptable to ask for a question to be repeated.
• Answer the questions fully, and give examples.
• Ask your own questions to find out more about the position.
• Provide any additional documentation required for the recruitment process.  If you forget your documentation, you will be able to arrange to provide it.

Common Mistakes

• Not providing the required documentation.
• Providing short answers with no details.
• Using jargon that is specific to a past employer to describe your duties.
• If the question asks for an example - be sure to give an example.
• Generalizing answers to not be specific.
• Ensure you give references that will answer, or return feedback on your behalf.