THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF JOB INTERVIEWS
Do’s
• Do take a practice run to the location where the interview is
scheduled-- or be sure you know exactly where it is and how long it takes to
get there. Also make sure you have asked about parking and where there some
available and if you need to bring change.
• Do your research and know the type of job interview you will be
encountering. Ask when you are scheduling the interview. Example: How many
people will be present?
• Do PRACTICE potential interview questions
before the interview Practice, practice and practice.
• Do dress the part for the job, the company, the industry. And do
err on the side of conservatism.
• Do plan to arrive about 10 - 15 minutes early. NEVER arrive late
for a job interview, if you are running late, phone the company to let them
know – this means leaving the house with all the contact info!
• Do remember to greet the receptionist or assistant in a polite and
friendly manner.
This
is where you make your first impression. Try not to talk on your cell phone or listen
to your MP3 player while waiting. Remember to turn your phone OFF.
• Do bring extra resumes, cover letters and references to the
interview – in case there is
a
panel interview and you need to distribute more than one.
• Do shake hands firmly. A limp or clammy handshake does NOT leave a good impression. Ask a couple of friends or
family members to honestly evaluate your handshake before you got to the
interview. A strong handshake covey’s confidence.
• Do remember body language and posture: sit upright and look
interested. Try not to fidget, slouch or cross your arms in front of your
chest.
• Do show what you can do for the company rather than what the
company can do for you. This is a very strong market for employees right now
but it is important for you to convey what you can do for the company. If you
only ask what they can do for you, chances are they won’t want an employee that
doesn’t contribute to the company’s success, no matter how desperate they need
employees.
• Do make good eye contact with your interviewer.
• Do make sure you know what Employers are allowed to ask you in the
interview – see the article called Human Rights and You: What Can Employers
Ask? In the
Interview
article section
• Do show off the research you have done on the company and industry
when responding to questions. Make sure you have checked out the company’s
website or have looked at any informational material the company may have BEFORE the interview. This shows you are
doing your homework
• Do remember that the interview is also an important time for you to evaluate the interviewer and the company they
represent. Make sure this is going to be a good fit with what you are looking
for. Remember that you are interviewing the company just as they are
interviewing you!
• Do ask questions about the job, company, or industry. It will
convey your interest and enthusiasm in the position.
• Do close the interview by telling the interviewer(s) that you want
the job and asking about the next step in the process. Don’t walk out wondering
what is next or when they will be make their decision, ask!
• Do try and get business cards from each person you interviewed
with -- Confirm the correct spelling of their first and last names.
• Do write thank you letters within 24 hours to each person who
interviewed you.
Don’t
• Don't chew gum during the interview.
• Don’t arrive late or bring a friend.
• Don't smoke beforehand so that you smell like smoke. And do brush
your teeth, use mouthwash, or have a breath mint before the interview.
• Don't speak softly. Try to speak up, a forceful voice projects
confidence.
• Don't say anything negative about former colleagues, supervisors,
or employers.
EVER!
• Don't act as though you would take any job or are desperate for
employment.
• Don't ever lie. Answer questions truthfully. If you do lie or
embellish it will eventually catch up to you.
• Don't answer questions with a simple "yes" or
"no." Explain whenever possible.
Describe
those things about yourself that showcase your abilities and skills. Give solid
examples that you have rehearsed prior to the interview.
• Don't bring up or discuss personal issues or family problems.
• Don't respond to an unexpected question with an extended pause. If
you need time to think, do repeat the question out loud or ask for the question
to be repeated to give you a little more time to think about an answer. A short pause before responding is okay.
• Don't answer cell phone calls during the interview, and do turn
off (or set to silent ring) your cell phone and/or pager.
• Don’t come unprepared! Set up an appointment with a career
counsellor to practice going over interviews to help ensure that you get the
job.
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