Make sure your application is legible and error free. Your resume should be error free as well.
Interviewing from the start
Dress professionally when you pickup and drop-off your application.
Dress for success
Call the receptionist prior to your interview and see what their dress code is and dress one level above that. Tattoos should be covered and excessive piercings should be removed. Men should remove all piercings. Never wear jeans or sneakers to an interview even if that is what your uniform might end up being. At the very least men should wear khakis with a buttdown or polo style shirt tucked in. A man's pants should not sag and thy should have a belt. Women should avoid open-toe style, stiletto or very high heels, and loud prints. Flip flops, mules, or clogs are also a no go. Stay with neutral makeup and nail polish. Stay away from see through and sparkle or sequined clothing. Wear simple jewelry. No bling bling or large hoops, bangles, or charm bracelets.
Go into interview mode as soon as you step out your door.
That guy you flip off in traffic might just be an interviewer. The woman you cutoff and take a parking spot from just might be an interviewer. That woman watching you rock out with your radio at full blast to the latest Lil Wayne song might just be an interviewer. That guy listening to your talk on your cell phone might just be an interviewer.
Be early
About 10 minutes early is what you are looking for.
Don't be a jerk
That security guy checking you in and that receptionist you confirm your presence with might just be asked what they think about you. You never know so treat everyone with respect.
Don't sit down until told
It signals that you are open to direction.
Be enthusiastic
Don't just answer questions be prepared to offer stories that illustrate your strengths.
Let the interviewers see how excited you are about the job prospect.
Maintain eye contact but don't stare
Failure to maintain eye contact may communicate weakness. Failing to maintain eye contact long enough can also communicate shiftiness.
KISS
Keep it simple stupid by answering questions succinctly and to the point. Do refrain from answering with just yes or no.
Be engaged
Nod your head and show that you are actively listening.
Ask for clarity
If a question stumps you or you simply don't understand what answer the question merits, Ask for it to be repeated or clarified.
Have an elevator pitch ready
Be prepared to offer a 30 second pitch about yourself.
Don’t flame old employers
If you will talk poorly about your old employers then what will you say about them? Stay positive when asked about previous employers.
Do you homework
Nothing says dummy like asking a question that you could have easily found out by checking the company website or searching for the answer on Google.
Bring your notebook
Prior to the interview mark down discussion points that you want to highlight during your interview.
Also, note three questions to ask about the position or company. Ask permissions to take notes during the interview. They are doing it so why shouldn’t you.
See Where you stand
Don't be afraid to ask where do you stand compared to their ideal candidate. Also ask how you compare with other applicants they have interviewed. Their answer to this question will give you a good feel for how you did in the interview.
Ask for the job
If the interview goes well let the interviewer know that you are excited about the possibility of working with them.
No comments:
Post a Comment