Interviewing Do's and Don'ts
DO be sure of the time, place and name of the interviewer.
DO plan to arrive early (at least 15 minutes). This will give you a cushion against unexpected delays, like traffic jams, and shows reliability and interest.
DO dress neatly and conservatively in a style consistent with the job which you are seeking. Don't be a slob, but don't overdress. For example, an expensive three-piece suit might be just the thing for certain top management sales positions, but if interviewing for a position as a maintenance foreman or a service station manager, the interviewer might assume you have unrealistic expectations about the job. In the latter case, a sport coat, or even a nice windbreaker and slacks might be more appropriate. A lot just depends on local and company standards. If possible, check-out the work place beforehand and see what others in positions similar to the one you are seeking wear on the job--then dress about the same or just a shade better for your interview.
DO bring a pen and pocket notebook (one small enough to stick out-of-sight). First you may be given information to write down, and you won't want to seem unprepared. Second, you'll want to make notes after the interview with an eye to self-improvement, and as a reminder of what you've already said in case you are asked back for a follow-up interview.
DO remember and use the interviewer's name (NOT the first name, unless you are so invited). If the interviewer is a woman use Ms., unless you know beforehand whether she prefers Miss, Mrs. or Ms. Should you run into an interviewer whom you know has a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D., be sure to address him or her as Doctor.
DO offer to shake hands when you meet the interviewer. At the end of the interview, offer to shake hands again. This applies regardless of your sex, or that of the interviewer. However, you may encounter interviewers who are uncomfortable with this new etiquette. In that case, go with what is most comfortable for you.
DON'T sit until the interviewer offers you a chair or seats him/herself first.
DON'T smoke.
DON'T chew gum or tobacco.
DO consider your answers carefully. A thoughtful pause on the "tough" questions is quite permissible, and in fact, will probably make a better impression than if you blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.
DO be outwardly oriented. Think of the other person. Interviewers, like everyone else, are concerned first and foremost with their own interests, problems, ambitions and so on. Be sensitive to this and watch for cues to the interviewer's concerns, both professional and personal.
You will also find that some interviewers are themselves inexperienced, or carrying their own heavy burdens of stress. Anything you can do to make the occasion easier or more interesting for them will be a point in your favor. Thinking about the other person will also help to keep you from thinking about and showing your own nervousness.
DO be alert for the intentional introduction of stress factors. Avoid showing insecurity or discouragement, even though you may understandably feel that way. You have nothing to lose by keeping it under control and you may gain a lot. Remember that you are a worthwhile person, however the interview comes out.
DO ask questions: About the company, the department, the job itself and tasks involved. Asking intelligent questions will probably require some research (there's that word again!). Show your interest and knowledge. Find out what will be expected of you on the job and tailor your answers and comments accordingly. To start describing all your skills, strengths, and accomplishments without knowing what the employer is looking for is like sailing full-speed-ahead without a rudder or compass.
DON'T brag about who you know (important connections, etc.)
DO bring your sense of humor along.
DO plan to arrive early (at least 15 minutes). This will give you a cushion against unexpected delays, like traffic jams, and shows reliability and interest.
DO dress neatly and conservatively in a style consistent with the job which you are seeking. Don't be a slob, but don't overdress. For example, an expensive three-piece suit might be just the thing for certain top management sales positions, but if interviewing for a position as a maintenance foreman or a service station manager, the interviewer might assume you have unrealistic expectations about the job. In the latter case, a sport coat, or even a nice windbreaker and slacks might be more appropriate. A lot just depends on local and company standards. If possible, check-out the work place beforehand and see what others in positions similar to the one you are seeking wear on the job--then dress about the same or just a shade better for your interview.
DO bring a pen and pocket notebook (one small enough to stick out-of-sight). First you may be given information to write down, and you won't want to seem unprepared. Second, you'll want to make notes after the interview with an eye to self-improvement, and as a reminder of what you've already said in case you are asked back for a follow-up interview.
DO remember and use the interviewer's name (NOT the first name, unless you are so invited). If the interviewer is a woman use Ms., unless you know beforehand whether she prefers Miss, Mrs. or Ms. Should you run into an interviewer whom you know has a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D., be sure to address him or her as Doctor.
DO offer to shake hands when you meet the interviewer. At the end of the interview, offer to shake hands again. This applies regardless of your sex, or that of the interviewer. However, you may encounter interviewers who are uncomfortable with this new etiquette. In that case, go with what is most comfortable for you.
DON'T sit until the interviewer offers you a chair or seats him/herself first.
DON'T smoke.
DON'T chew gum or tobacco.
DO consider your answers carefully. A thoughtful pause on the "tough" questions is quite permissible, and in fact, will probably make a better impression than if you blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.
DO be outwardly oriented. Think of the other person. Interviewers, like everyone else, are concerned first and foremost with their own interests, problems, ambitions and so on. Be sensitive to this and watch for cues to the interviewer's concerns, both professional and personal.
You will also find that some interviewers are themselves inexperienced, or carrying their own heavy burdens of stress. Anything you can do to make the occasion easier or more interesting for them will be a point in your favor. Thinking about the other person will also help to keep you from thinking about and showing your own nervousness.
DO be alert for the intentional introduction of stress factors. Avoid showing insecurity or discouragement, even though you may understandably feel that way. You have nothing to lose by keeping it under control and you may gain a lot. Remember that you are a worthwhile person, however the interview comes out.
DO ask questions: About the company, the department, the job itself and tasks involved. Asking intelligent questions will probably require some research (there's that word again!). Show your interest and knowledge. Find out what will be expected of you on the job and tailor your answers and comments accordingly. To start describing all your skills, strengths, and accomplishments without knowing what the employer is looking for is like sailing full-speed-ahead without a rudder or compass.
DON'T brag about who you know (important connections, etc.)
DO bring your sense of humor along.
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