Job Interviews: 5 Do's and Don'ts Every Candidate Must Know
JobSearchRX
An effective resume can get you in the door but a bad interview can quickly eliminate your employment opportunity.
When interviewing, you must know the do's and don'ts of the process. One mistake can cost you the job of your dreams and one great moment can seal the deal. So, before you go to an interview, take time to review our list of do's and don'ts.
They can make all the difference.
Do's:
1. A day or two before, take time to practice driving to your interview location. This will help you foresee how long you will need to get there on time.
2. Practice your interview; have a friend ask potential questions to you so you can best prepare yourself. Do not seem rehearsed, however, when the actual interview comes. Just practice so you can seem comfortable and confident. If a friend is not available, stand in front of a mirror and record yourself. Then, after you play the tape, you can hear where you need to improve.
3. Dress up-future employers will make a snap judgment of you when you first arrive. This opinion will be based on your manners and dress. Casual clothing is not acceptable in most companies. Dress in a style that suits the position you're seeking.
4. Arrive early to your interview. By arriving ten to fifteen minutes ahead of schedule, you will show employers that you are eager and willing to work. Also, you will allow yourself extra time to collect your thought and curb your excitement.
5. Remember that body language is important. You send off multiple signals to an employer by your facial expressions, hand gestures and posture. During your practice interview, have a friend watch you for any movements that seem unprofessional; if a friend is not available, watch yourself in a mirror. By catching these movements ahead of time, you can learn to master them and give a solid impression at your actual interview.
Don'ts:
1. Do not oversell or undersell. During an interview, you must reach a balance of emotions. You cannot appear overly confident but, at the same time, you cannot seem to too modest. Be honest and assertive, while maintaining a respectful tone. Employers do not want someone who is either arrogant or meek. Do not make the mistake of being either.
2. Do not answer questions with a simple "Yes" or "No". Try to explain everything in the best possible way. If you give no detail, employers are likely to think you have nothing to offer the company, whether by experience or self-confidence. When asked a question , give answers that emphasize your abilities. "Yes" or "No" will not do that.
3. Do not respond to an unexpected question by repeating the question or making some casual statement (for example, "That's a really good question"). Also do not use too many fill-in words; "uh", "um" and "you know" are examples of those. These things make you appear unprepared. When a question that you did not expect arrives, take a moment to consider it and then answer to the best of your ability.
4. Do not seem too casual during the interview. While it is good to appear relaxed, employers do not appreciate candidates who seem too relaxed. Do not use slang or poor language (the kind you would reserve for family and friends) and do not make jokes. This is an interview; you must be professional.
5. Do not lie. While it is important to make yourself seem the best person for the job, you cannot use a lie to do it. You must always tell the truth. When a question is asked, try to craft a statement that puts you in the best light; however, do not resort to dishonesty to create that light. Be honest, always.
These 5 do's and don'ts may seem obvious but many job interviews ignore them; put yourself ahead of the competition. Follow these suggestions and get the career employment opportunity you deserve.
Robert Moment, is an author, business coach, and success strategist. He has successfully consulted with and advised hundreds of job seekers. His most recent e-book, What Matters Most is Employment is a concise guide, packed with information and tips on finding and getting career-advancing employment in today's job market.