The Applicant’s Guide to the Do’s and Don’ts of Interviewing!
Based on a combination of my own experience and the research I’ve done, the #1 reason why applicants/candidates fail interviews is Poor Preparation. Some of the additional reasons include negativity, low interest and enthusiasm in the role or company, being rude and/or disrespectful to the receptionist, dressing inappropriately, being overly relaxed or casual, and yawning. I thought I would put together a list of the Do’s and Don’ts of interviewing, and I know it’s a bit lengthy but bear with me! I think everything can be extremely helpful. DO: Arrive on time! Being late can cost you the interview and potentially the job. DO: Practice good personal hygiene practices, and stay away from heavy scented perfumes, lotions, and aftershaves. DO: Read through any job description or job posting thoroughly prior to your interview. DO: Have clean, fresh copies of your resume stored in a place they will not be damaged. DO: Your research! Make sure you are looking at company or business’s Jobcase profile, and website if applicable. DO: Dress for success. Make sure that your clothes are clean and free of any rips/holes, frayed edges, loose hems, stains, etc. I always lean more towards the side of overdressing vs. underdressing. And if you’re in need of clothes for interviews try checking with resources like Dress for Success, or your local Goodwill. DO: Prepare in advance how to discuss anything that will appear on your background check. Being up front can help to build trust with the employer. And don’t forget, you’re human and you made a mistake. Here are some resources how to approach this and explain: https://goodprospects.goodwill.org/build-skills/address-criminal-record-explaining-your-new-values http://www.ncdsv.org/images/KnowYourRights--AnsweringQuestionsfromEmployersAboutRecordsArrests.pdf http://www.cacp.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/assets/pdfs/WorkforceDevelopment/Explainingyourconviction.pdf *There additional state specific sites to look at regarding this to make sure there are not different laws in different states. DON’T: Ask the following questions in an interview: a. Information on what the company does - this shows that you have not taken the time to research the company or business that you are interviewing with, as well as a lack of attention to detail. b. If the employer would be willing to change the compensation for you. c. Ask if the position can be remote so that you can work from home, unless the job description has specified that it can be. d. If the company monitors your computer and/or email activity. e. If you will be able to change the job description or responsibilities of the job and when you will be promoted DON’T: Keep your phone out during the interview. This is a distraction and can appear that you aren’t taking the interview seriously. You should probably also steer clear of checking your watch.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and let me know if I’ve forgotten anything. Good luck out there!
These are really great tips!! Some of the don't made my chuckle, but I'm sure there are actually people who do that.
One question regarding yawning - sometimes that isn't something you can control. What if a yawn comes out of nowhere, but you then say "excuse me" after it. Is that ok? I know getting a good night's rest before the interview is best, but sometimes that just doesn't happen. Ya know - life!
Thanks!
I usually have a few questions prepared, jot them down. I want to know more about the culture of the organization, how they invest in employees-like opportunities for continuing ed or certification. People reading is important, so try to ask something they will have the answer to-like, what's my first priority. Of course, I'm unemployed for a year, so maybe things have changed. I'm finding my skills exceed my interviewers' and being older is not helpful. There are many variables, but the best advice I've been given is "just be you".