Know the Job

• Show that you have read the job description posted by the state agency. Before you were called for the interview, a hiring committee or a human resources professional already had determined that you met the minimum qualifications for the position. You will likely be interviewed by a a panel or a committee. Demonstrate knowledge of a job's critical duties and be prepared to talk about transferable skills from past jobs and educational experiences. Thorough knowledge of the job can help you earn a high rating from the interview panel or committee.
  
  

Show Adaptability

• Demonstrate your willingness to adapt to the culture of a state agency. Practice using key phrases that reflect your flexibility. For example, talk about past jobs in which you were a member of a successful team. Discuss examples such as voluntary participation in committees. Describe ways that you improved an organization by making suggestions. Talk about your commitment to training and to learning policies and procedures.
  
  

Quantify Accomplishments

• Use hard figures to quantify your accomplishments. For example, you can talk about how you were able to achieve a particular sales goal. Or, talk about how many new employees you trained in a previous position. Discuss the amount of money you saved a former employer by coming up with a business-improvement strategy.
  
  

Express Commitment to Public Service

• Talk about your calling to public service. You must prepare a viable explanation for why you want to become a state employee. This is a good opportunity to talk about past volunteering and charity work. You could even discuss how you were disappointed with a government service and that you wanted to bring about change. But don't reveal your political or religious affiliations.