Interview Tips: Do’s & Don’ts
Do’s
Be Prepared for the interview
Research the company; understand what the company does, what its products and services are. Know why you want to work at this position for this company.
Also, know your resume; be sure of dates, titles, duties and companies that are present on your resume. Therefore, you will be prepared for questions related to your resume.
Dress Code: Look the part
Good grooming and professional appearance are important. Your objective is to impress your potential employer; they must be able to visualize you in the role. Even if you know the office is typically business casual, a suit makes an excellent first impression. You are better to overdress than under dress.
Bring copies of your resume
Interviewers don't always have a copy of your resume available, and you will seem well prepared if you have a copy on hand.
Be punctual
Be on time. If necessary, travel to the interview location the day before to ensure you know how to get there. However, being too early (10 minutes or more) is not good either. Wait in the lobby or somewhere nearby until 10 minutes prior to the interview.
Use a firm handshake and direct eye contact
This helps convey confidence and establish a positive connection with the other person.
,Relax and be yourself
People tend to stress over a job interview. Just be the best, professional version of yourself. Even if you aren't the right person for the job, you are likely to learn something new and useful for future interviews.
Smile and be friendly
A warm smile goes a long way toward establishing a good first impression and rapport with the interviewer.
Ask questions
Make sure you have prepared a few questions ahead of time. Typically, interviewers gauge your interest in the position by whether you ask questions.
Write a thank-you note
Make sure you get a business card from every interviewer and send a handwritten note or email to each one. Make sure you spell their names correctly. So few people write thank-you notes that this alone will create a positive impression.
Don’ts
Cell Phones
Always turn off your cell phone when going into an interview. Having your phone ring or answering your phone in an interview is very disrespectful to an interviewer. There is nothing more important at that time than the interview.
Foul Language and Odour
Remember, you are trying to impress your potential employer. Swearing, smelling like smoke or your last meal with definitely hurt your chances in getting the job.
Too Comfortable or Laid Back
A first impression is crucial in your interview. Slouching, using slang, looking sloppy and not being prepared may imply to your potential employer that you are not interested or lack personal motivation.
Badmouthing Past Employers
Be professional. Saying bad things about your previous employer(s) does not aid in impressing your Interviewer. Even if you have ill feelings towards past employers, don't say so.
Talking Too Much
Simply answer the question, keep your answers concise, focused and to the point. You may need to expand, but stay on topic.
Not Talking Enough
You want to be responsive and alert. Fully answer the question the best you can. Make the interviewer’s job easy by being a good communicator.