Before you walk into the building

• TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE
  • Try to refrain from turning it on vibrate – a vibrating phone can be just as loud as a ringtone
  • If you must keep your phone on, turn the volume on silent
• Check your clothes for hair, pet hair, or lint
  • Try to keep a lint roller with you, just in case

 

Before you meet the interviewer

• Introduce yourself to the receptionist/ secretary
  • Make small talk, if appropriate
  • Many times, employer will ask receptionist/ secretary what they thought of you
• Observe the office décor
  • Wall paintings, furniture, awards, framed newspaper articles, type of magazines in the lobby will give you a sense about the company culture

 

First introductions with Interviewer

• Shake hands
  • Quick and firm handshake
  • Make eye contact
• Smile and present a friendly personality
• Express gratitude to interviewer for meeting with you

 

Interview

• Be aware of your behavior
  • If you had a fight with your significant other, had a flat tire, got stuck in traffic… FORGET IT!
• Engage in positive talk
• Show a high level of confidence
  • Let them know that you are open and easy to work with
• Be aware of how you speak – Most people will speak differently when they are nervous
  • Ensure you have a nice/ light tone to your voice – if you had a bad day, do not let the interview hear your anger/ frustration
  • Beware of “interrupters” (i.e. “uh,” “um,” “like,” “you know,” etc.)
  • If you need a moment to gather your thoughts, avoid the interrupters, take a breath, then continue on with your answer
• If you do not understand a question, do not be afraid to ask the employer to repeat/ reword it
• Body language is important
  • If you speak with your hands, make friendly gestures when responding to questions
  • Do not twitch or constantly shift during the interview – You are nervous and your interviewer understands that, but try to not move around too much
  • Avoid touching your face (i.e. scratching/ rubbing nose, picking ear, rubbing eyes, etc.) as much as humanly possible
• Make eye contact throughout entirety of interview
  • Do not look at the ceiling or away when answering questions
• Be honest and sincere with your answers
  • Employers appreciate honesty – Be 100% truthful when asked questions
  • DO NOT LIE ABOUT ANYTHING
• Do not discuss anything negative about previous workplaces
  • A potential employer does not wish to hear negative things about previous employers, coworkers, or even your personal problems
  • Be in the “here and now” of the interview and think ONLY of what you must do while you are interviewing
  • Avoiding a negative conversation will help to keep you from an uncomfortable position