Who Pays for the Visit?

When you are invited for the site visit, be sure to ask how the employer wants you to travel, where to stay and which if any expenses will be paid by the employer. Determine whether you will receive an advance or will be reimbursed. If you are to be reimbursed, it will be necessary for you to keep all receipts for food, lodging, and transportation.

If traveling by air, ask if the company is sending your ticket. If buying your own. Ask how you are to get to the hotel or office from the airport.

When Does the Interviewing Begin?

The interviewing process begins upon your arrival, with your first contact with a company representative. Whether you are picked up at the airport or the hotel and taken to dinner or asked to report to the personnel office, it is as important to dress and behave professionally at all times.

How Long Will the Interview Last?

The site visit will usually last about five to six hours. On the day of the interview, you can typically expect to be hosted by the office that initially contacted you. Someone from personnel will take you to your first interview and help with your schedule for the day.  You may be taken to lunch with several company representatives. The dining experience reveals interpersonal skills as well as attention to detail, so do not minimize the importance of dining etiquette.  You may be interviewed by prospective co-workers, higher-level executives and, most importantly, your future supervisor. At the end of the series of interviews, your host will make sure you get back to your car, cab or airport.

How Should I Prepare to Relate My Skills and Interests?

After thoroughly reviewing the organizational literature and company Web site, you should have a good idea about the type of work you will be doing. If you do not have a job description before the interview, ask what you will be doing, and you should honestly relate your education, interests, and experience to the needs of the company.

What Questions Should I Be Prepared to Answer?

It is impossible to predict the exact questions you will be asked, but most of them will be designed to answer these basic questions:

Are you willing to do the work expected of you?
Will you be compatible with the company, the department, supervisor and co-workers?
Are you willing to make a strong commitment to be a successful employee?

You may also be asked technical questions and behavioral questions looking for skills such as team and leadership skills.

What Do I Do If I Receive an Offer?

Thank them for the offer; tell them you are pleased they are interested in you and ask when they need your response. If pressed for an immediate answer, simply explain that you are not ready to make a decision. If possible, decide before the interview how much time you need to make a decision and ask if that would be acceptable.

What Methods Should I Use to Evaluate the Company?

Look at the company Web site.  Also, read all the printed literature about the company, including the annual report, one or more company newsletters, and all "image brochures."  Find out if it has been growing as reflected by new products or services, facilities or acquisitions. Check the Dun & Bradstreet and Standard & Poor's ratings. Ask friends, family, professors and employed engineers about the company.

The site visit can be grueling; but it is an excellent opportunity for both you and those in the organization to evaluate each other. Be prepared; know your strengths, accomplishments and abilities. Get a good night's sleep, and enjoy yourself! Finally, remember to write the appropriate people and express your appreciation for the visit.

Be sure to check out our site visit online workshop!