The Daily Commute ... in an ExecuWorld
Interviewing Do's and Don'ts
Do's
Dress for Success!! You have heard it your whole life. It works. You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Always dress in business attire when applying for a position in an office or professional environment unless you are specifically asked not to do so by the hiring manager.
- Read through the website.
- Gain insight.
- Review any documentation pertinent to the position for which you are applying.
- Formulate questions you may want to ask.
- Tardiness is not excusable. Arrive about 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Bring a notebook AND take at least one note.
- Always maintain a professional demeanor.
- Smile, Smile, Smile
- Make eye contact.
- Maintain good posture. Try not to cross arms or legs.
- Answer the interviewer's questions as specifically as possible.
- Try to make responses visual. Most interviewers will remember a story versus a fact.
- Relate your skills and background to the position requirements throughout the interview.
- Try to organize at least 6 to 12 stories of your most significant successes. Think of them in terms of SAR Statements (Situation, Action, Result)
- Situation = WHY was there a situation or issue that needed to be addressed?
- Action = How did you address or resolve the situation?
- Result = WHAT was the result or resolution that lead to this significant accomplishment?
- Ask open ended questions. An interview should be a mutual exchange of information, not a one-sided conversation.
- Give your qualifications. Focus on accomplishments that are most pertinent to the job.
- Anticipate tough questions. Prepare to turn perceived weaknesses into strengths.
- Listen. Concentrate not only on the interviewer's words, but also on the tone of voice and body language. Once you understand how the interviewer thinks, pattern your answers accordingly and you will be able to establish a better rapport.
75% of the hiring decision will be based on chemistry between you and the interviewer(s)
Don'ts
- Don't answer vague questions like "Tell me about yourself." Ask the interviewer to clarify fuzzy questions by asking, "What specifically would you like to know?"
- Don't interrupt the interviewer. If you don't listen, the interviewer won't either.
- Don't be disrespectful. Don't smoke, chew gum or place anything on the interviewer's desk.
- Don't be overly familiar, even if the interviewer is.
- Don't wear any perfume or cologne. The anxiety of an interview intensifies fragrances, especially in closed offices.
- Don't ramble. Overlong answers may make you sound apologetic or indecisive.
- Never lie or embellish your history. Answer questions truthfully.
- Don't express bitterness. Avoid derogatory remarks about present or former employers.
- Be careful of mutual acquaintances. If you both know the same people your interviewer may check up on you without you knowing about it.
- Don’t oversell yourself. Too much information even if all seemingly good could work against you.
- Don’t bring up money or benefits on a first interview.
A few things to remember during the closing process
Don't be discouraged if an offer is not made or a specific salary is not discussed. The interviewer may want to communicate with colleagues or conduct other scheduled interviews before making a decision.
Make sure that you have thoroughly answered these questions during the interview: "Why are you interested in our company?" and "What can you offer?" Express appreciation for the interviewer's time and consideration.
Ask for the interviewer's business card so you can write a thank you letter as soon as possible.
Follow-up
After your interview, follow-up is critical. When you get in your car, immediately write down key issues uncovered in the interview. Think of the qualifications the employer is looking for and match your strengths to them. A "thank you" letter should be written no later than 24 hours after the interview. Be sure to call your recruiter to discuss your interview and your next steps, as well.
