So you’ve finally made it past the job search and application process and are preparing for the big interview. While you’re now definitely one step closer, this interview will most likely be the deciding factor in landing the job (no pressure). Have you ever made unnecessary mistakes you wish you could take back because of nerves or excitement? If so, here are some tips to consider before heading into an interview to avoid missing a job opportunity.
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DON’T just interview with everybody: Before you even go to an interview, evaluate if you really want this job. “Make sure you’re really interested in the company,” said Kathy Dotson, University of California, Irvine’s career center assistant director. If you’re not passionate about the job, employers will know.
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DON’T be late If you’re late: Even if you're late by five minutes, a potential employer will have a bad first impression. Some employers won’t even see you if you show up late. Remember, being an hour early and waiting is better than risking losing a chance at a job.
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DON’T come unprepared: Do your research on the company and the person you’re interviewing with if you know whom it will be beforehand. “You need to be prepared to speak about the company and why you want to work for them in particular,” said Michael Gaynor, Washingtonian Magazine’s assistant editor.
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DON’T forget what’s on your resume: Know your own achievements and experience. Employers will ask questions about your past responsibilities and contributions, so make sure your answers are consistent with your resume.
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DON’T bring in food or electronics: While this may seem like an obvious one, even holding your phone or a drink may seem unprofessional, said Lisa Woods, a career center consultant from Augusta, Maine.
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DON’T dress sloppily or inappropriately: You want to make sure you look professional to an employer, so it’s important to dress sharp, Dotson said. For girls, no low-cut shirts or short skirts. For guys, no collared shirts; button downs are a must!
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DON’T be unfriendly to anyone: “You want to come across well to everyone you meet,” Dotson said. You never know with whom your potential employer might talk and you definitely do not want to start off on the wrong foot with anyone.
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DON’T speak negatively: You never want to bad mouth a past employer or professor, Dotson said. “You want to focus on what positively you’ll bring to the job. It leaves a bitter taste in an employers mouth,” she added.
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DON’T ramble but don’t be too quiet either: It’s difficult to know exactly how long your answers should be, which is why practicing is important, said Woods. You want to make sure to get your point across clearly and concisely, but don’t forget to mention your strengths or contributions.
- DON’T forget to follow up: Send a thank you note afterwards. “You want to thank an employer for their time and highlight anything you may have forgot to say or want to remind them about,” Dotson said. A thank you always adds a nice final touch to an interview and will keep you in an employers mind.
