Interviewing for a Job - Do’s and Don’ts!
Before you go to an interview you should learn all you can about the company you are applying with and become familiar with the job description of the position open. Only apply if you qualify. For example, if the job requirement is 2 years experience you shouldn’t apply if you do not have the qualifications. You might apply for a different position within the company that you qualify for.
Arrive 10 minutes early. Dress appropriately for the interview. Look like you put some effort into getting ready and not like you just climbed out of bed and threw something on. Clean clothes neatly pressed that are business casual usually work best. For men a long sleeve dress shirt with buttons and tie is always good and pants without holes. For women a modest dress or pant suit without showing a lot of skin is nice. Clean shoes with covered toes are best. No flip-flops or sandals. Clean hair neatly combed, hands washed, fingernails manicured, teeth brushed helps you feel good about yourself and prepares you to be more confident during the interview.
The first impression is made in the first 15 seconds of an interview. A hand shake, looking the interviewer in the eye and a smile are important. Don’t sit down until you are asked to be seated. Stay calm and avoid fidgeting and slouching.
Be prepared to answer questions and always tell the truth. Dishonesty gets discovered and is grounds for withdrawing a job offer and termination. If you have had gaps in your employment and have had several jobs in the past, explain why. Be honest!
Never talk about your previous employer in a negative way. Have a positive attitude as you are being evaluated as a potential co-worker. Let the interviewer know what your skills are. Don’t make excuses. Take responsibility for your decisions and your actions. Don’t treat the interview casually as if you are just shopping around or doing the interview for practice.
Don’t give the impression that you are only interested in the salary and benefits, especially disclosing you are in debt and in need of a job. Everyone applying needs a job or a change in employment or they wouldn’t be applying. Remember the interviewer is looking for qualified candidates that will be an asset to their company because of their knowledge and skills, dependability and attitude.
Don’t chew gum, smell like smoke or use too much cologne or perfume. Don’t take your cell phone into the interview or turn it off during the interview. Don’t take your parents, spouse, fiancé, friends or pets to an interview. If you are not grown up and independent enough to attend an interview alone, your probably not grown up and independent enough for a job.
When the interviewer concludes the interview, offer a firm handshake, make eye contact and exit gracefully. After the interview make notes right away so you don’t forget critical details and when you should expect to hear what action you are expected to take next, if any. Write a thank you letter to your interviewer promptly after the interview.
Learn from each interview and don’t be too discouraged if you don’t get the position you applied for. When one door closes another always opens. Try to determine what went wrong and apply your experience to become better at the next interview. Continue to learn and improve your skills. There are classes and people in our community who can help you.
Happy Job Hunting!
Brenda Bailey
Home: 208-650-4140
Email: brenda.bailey.1@hotmail.com
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