Interview Do's & Don'ts
Feb 11 '00 (Updated May 30 '00)
When interviewing, many people forget that you never have a second chance to make a first impression. I have been in Human Resources for almost seven years, and conducted many interviews, as well as career workshops for college seniors and graduates. Sometimes, applicants do not realize how they project themselves in the interview process. I have prepared a basic list of "do's and don'ts" from my past actual interview experiences with applicants.
-DO-
•Know about the company product/service. I have some applicants say, “what do you do here?” during the interview, after they have sent in their resume. I felt like saying “Nuclear cloning” or some other bizarre answer to watch their reaction. Why would you apply to a company without knowing anything about them? Make sure that you research and ask questions before you go to the interview!
•Be prompt and courteous. I had a lady that listed on her application that she is “never, ever late” as a reason to hire her. Then she was 15 minutes late for the interview without an explanation. I could barely keep a straight face during the interview! Not only did it lesson her credibility, but it also looked as if she did not take the job she was applying for seriously.
•Be well dressed and neatly groomed. I have had college graduates show up for management interviews in sandals, jeans, or shorts. I had one guy show up in a “Hooters” T-shirt to show that he was an “average guy.”
•Go alone. I have actually had a woman bring her boyfriend and two children to an interview. While I was asking questions, her son tried to unplug my computer and printer while her toddler ran a toy truck up and down my leg!
•Bring resumes or portfolios. There’s nothing like being prepared. Bring an updated resume and reference. I have had applicants that were not able to list references during the interview because they forgot the information. When you come unprepared, you may appear to be unorganized. Also, bringing extra “proof” to support your candidacy is helpful (portfolios or projects).
•Shake hands firmly. This may seem like a myth, but non-verbal communication projects a lot in a first time meeting.
•Maintain good eye contact. Eye contact is also important for non-verbal communication. Do not allow yourself to become distracted by the office environment. Focus on the interviewer.
•Allow the employer to express themselves. Frequent interruptions are a good way to get both of you side tracked. Give the employer an opportunity to explain the company and position responsibilities. You may express yourself when you describe your work experience, education, and accomplishments.
•Ask relevant questions. Ask questions about the company’s 401k plan, benefit package, or other relevant questions about the position. However, do not ask the employer if they are married, have children, or where they live. (I have actually had those questions asked, when I asked, “Do you have any questions for me?”).
•Emphasize what you can do for the company. List specific examples of what you can do. Give examples of past leadership roles or accomplishments.
•Speak clearly and project enthusiasm. Voice inflection, a smile, and a positive attitude can go a long way!
•Thank interviewer upon departure. This should be common courtesy.
•Send a thank you letter. This is a nice touch that reminds the employer of your meeting.
-DON’T-
•Discuss your personal difficulties. So many people discuss financial, marital, and other personal topics during an interview. This is not appropriate for discussion.
•Chew gum. I had a former boss tell me a story about when he was interviewing a man for a management position that was chewing gum. When my former boss leaned a way to get something from his desk, the man actually blew a bubble. What was really bad was that the guy didn’t realize was the gum got stuck in his mustache!
•Criticize yourself or others. When you are critical of others, you may appear to be a negative person. When you are critical of yourself, you may appear to lack confidence.
•Complain about a previous employer. Never complain about previous employers, regardless of how horrible they really were. This can make an applicant appear to be difficult to get along with at work.
•Present an "extreme" appearance Green nail polish or hair, body piercings, etc., are not appropriate for interviewing.
•Misrepresent yourself. Don’t lie about experience, accomplishments, or education that you don’t have.
•Tell how badly you need a job. You should validate your candidacy for the job, and why you would be a good match. I have always questioned an applicant’s long-term goals when they tell me that they “need” the job.
•Overly emphasize starting salary. Some people do this and appear to be too greedy or too needy. Let the employer bring up salary then negotiate an agreeable salary.
•Try to be too funny. I once had a guy tell me a few jokes during the interview that were kind of funny, but after a while he became extremely annoying and unfocused.
•Slouch. Positive professional projection is important.
•Interrupt. Be a good listener and communicator.
•Use heavy after shave/cologne/make-up. I interviewed a gentleman last year that really over did it on the after shave. When I say, really over did it, I mean the next three people that came in my office in the next two hours commented on the strong smell!
•Use slang language/profanity.This should be common sense, but unfortunately it is not. I have had several people use foul language and slang terms during an interview. This does not portray a positive professional image.
Remember, always be prepared, polite, and confident. Believe in yourself and you will find the job that is the right match for you.
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Member: Tammy
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