The interview is typically the most important step of the hiring process. It allows for you to show to the employer things that you can’t really put on a resume. You can show your communication skills, your personality, and your confidence. Do you know how to showcase your skills? Do you know what to do to make the interview worthwhile, and leave a lasting impression? What about things to avoid in an interview? Don’t forget, an interview is also a great way for you to learn more about an employer, so don’t forget to ask them questions (respectfully) as well! Here are our Don’ts (and Do’s) of interviewing!
Preparedness
Don’t: Show up to the interview without knowing about the company, or position.
Do: Show up having notes, and knowledge of the employer. Show them you prepared for the interview.
Don’t: Enter the interview without questions prepared for the interviewer.
Do: Make sure to have your top questions written down. Listen for key points to see if they were answered during the interview. (Here are some of our top questions you NEED to be asking)
Presentation
Don’t: Walk into your (or sign into) interview looking disheveled.
Do: Present yourself well. Wear a nice outfit (make sure it’s appropriate), neaten your hair. Anything you can do to look well put together and presentable.
Don’t: Have poor body language or facial expressions.
Do: Make sure to smile, have good eye contact, and sit in a comfortable way to come off as open, rather than defensive.
Punctuality
Don’t: Arrive late. Being late leaves a horrible taste for the interviewer.
Do: Arrive early. You should be there 10-15 minutes early. You never know the parking situation, how traffic is, etc…
Attentiveness
Don’t: Ask repetitive questions, this can present like you were not listening.
Do: Listen carefully, asking direct questions.
Don’t: Check your phone, or have it ring during your interview.
Do: Shut your phone off, or at least put it on silent for the duration of your interview.
A few other tips we can offer is to make sure that you are able to spin any negative things into a positive. If you didn’t like a previous employer, maybe just direct the conversation to the skills you learned there. If you had a gap in your resume, make sure to have an explanation prepared, it’s not a deal-breaker. It is also important to have a flexible schedule, employers are not going to chase you for an interview. Overall though, make sure to be authentic. Interviewers are looking to meet you not a pre-programmed version.
