Research before your job interview

Increase the chances of getting a job offer by coming prepared to your interview, whether the interview will be by phone or in person.

Employer
First find out all you can about the employer and setting. If it's an RV park, how many sites are there, what sort of clientele does it cater to, is it a destination park or for short visits, what are their policies, how much do RV sites cost? You may decide it's not for you based on what you learn and save both your time and the employer's. Or, the information may lead to more questions. For other employers, you can find information about their hours, facilities, type of visitor and dates of operation and perhaps employee policies.

Area
You can find out a lot about the area ahead of time. Find out things to do in the area, what other RV parks are charging, health services and shopping, normal weather, threat of tornados or hurricanes. If you are interviewing with an employer with no RV sites, check out RV parks in the area and their rates. Check with your cell phone carrier about coverage.

Before your interview, make sure you know how to pronounce the owner's and/or manager's name. Call and ask if you aren't sure.

Resources
These can help in your research:

• Check sites like RVParkReviews.com that share visitor experiences about the campground.
• Post at forums like RV Travel forums and Workamper forums.
• Obtain area planners and other information from the closest tourist bureau or visitor center.

There is no excuse for not having some knowledge about the employer and the area beforehand. That knowledge will save time in the interview, lead to more important questions you might not have asked, and make you sound more professional. Jaimie Hall-Bruzenak