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Just like before, this was inspired by a class last school year.  I figured if I did tips for one side of the table, I should do it for the other.  Thinking about it now, October is coming up with a bunch of monster posts.  Maybe this interview theme is good way to easy into the kind of scary time.  Guess we’ll find out.

1. Listen to the person asking a question and try not to think up an answer as soon as they start talking.  You might think you know where they are going, but there’s a chance that you will miss something if you aren’t paying attention.  For example, they could bring up specific character, so you think they are going to ask about the inspiration.  Instead, they want to know about a specific event the character went through.  You might not realize this if you’ve already gone into your own head to craft the ‘perfect’ answer to a question that isn’t asked.
2. Try to give more to a question than a simple answer.  Some interviewers won’t know exactly what to ask or think you will go running with a topic.  As long as you’re comfortable, build upon what you say in the first sentence.  It’s like writing a book where you need to expand upon the initial concept.
3. Don’t feel like you have to be rushed for answers, especially if the interviewer appears to be leading you in a specific direction.  Take a breath and think for a few seconds to gather your thoughts.  Speaking vaguely as if to stall for time only helps for a bit and can cause problems.  So, it might be better to say nothing at all.  If you have a drink then take your time having a sip.
4. Keep your temper in check even if the interview is taking an insulting turn.  Once you explode, you give the person what they may have really wanted.  Remain calm and state that you aren’t comfortable.  You can also polite say that you think the interview is going off-topic or that an area they are heading into is private.  For example, an interviewer is asking about your book, but starts heading into the topic of your divorce.  Not their business or on topic, so you have every right to say so.
5. Before the interview, feel free to politely request anything that will make you comfortable. Don’t make demands, but ask if a drink or snack can be made available.  You can even try to ask if a specific venue that you prefer be used.  If they say no to the location then don’t take offense because they may not be comfortable there or have another reason.
6. TURN OFF YOUR PHONE!
7. Watch the interviewer’s body language and listen to their voice tone.  That will help you get a sense of how they are enjoying your responses.  If they are yawning or slouching, you might be boring them.  Part of doing an interview like this is to show that you are worth talking to.  They may have felt that at the beginning, but now you have to prove them right.