Tips for Nailing the Out of Town Job Interview

If you’re in the market for a new job, letting the recruiter know that you’re flexible to move will open your job opportunities. Sometimes, when interviewing for a position that is local, you’ll be required to interview at the corporate headquarters which may well be out of town. No need to panic. With the right amount of planning, an out of town interview can be just as successful as one down the street.

The first step is to communicate with the hiring manager on travel arrangements. Will you do the booking and be reimbursed by the company once an expense report is submitted? Will you rely on the Human Resources personnel to book your flight and secure your hotel accommodations? Transfer and transportation costs to and from both the office to the hotel and the airport to the hotel as well as any per diem allowances should be made clear up front. If you’re making the arrangements yourself, log onto one of the reputable online travel sites and book the hotel and flight together. Try to locate a hotel as near as possible to the corporate office where you’ll be interviewing.

Provided it’s only an overnight trip with arrival one day and interview/departure the following, you should be fine with one carry one bag.  If you’ve purchased something new to wear for the interview, try it on again at home to confirm the fit and any accessories you’ll need to compliment. Keep it simple. Confirm that your leather resume folder or briefcase is polishes and in good shape. Remember the most important thing to wear to an interview is a genuine smile and a quiet self-confidence.

Research the company as well as the hiring manager before the interview. Learn about the company’s history, product line, market share and reputation.  This information will be the basis for interview questions both from the hiring manager and you. Remember, an interview is a two way street. Not only is the company determining if you’re a good fit for the position, but you’re also deciding if the company is a good fit for your career objectives and provides a culture that’s within your comfort zone. Be as prepared to ask questions as you are to answer them and you’ll be a huge success. Good luck!

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