| So, your resume has caught an employer's eye and he wants to meet you face-to-face in an interview. Now is when you and your potential employer to get to know each other and decide whether or not there is a fit that fulfills each other's needs. |
 |
| You can make the right impression on your interviewer by following a few simple tips and avoiding a few pitfalls that can knock you out of consideration. |
|
| If you're new to interviewing, the best advice you'll get is to prepare and practice - don't go in cold. Learn more in Interview Tips and Common Interview Questions. |
|
Interview Do's
Be prepared: |
|
 |
Research the company and the position. |
|
|
Practice your answers to Common Interview Questions. |
|
|
Rehearse the Questions with a friend. |
|
|
Prepare your interview materials in advance. |
|
| Present a professional appearance and demeanor: |
|
|
Wear suitable business attire. |
|
|
Pay attention to your grooming. |
|
| Arrive Early: |
|
|
Arrive 10 minutes early for your appointment, unless otherwise instructed. |
|
| During the Interview: |
|
|
Mind your manners - be polite, but don't overdo it. |
|
|
Show self-confidence, not arrogance. |
|
|
Remember to listen - don't interrupt. |
|
|
Reflect before answering questions. |
|
|
Focus on how your strengths will benefit the company. |
|
|
Ask the questions you prepared in advance. |
|
|
Ask for the job! |
|
|
Say thank you! |
|
Interview Don'ts
Be Professional: |
|
|
If you are late, don't make excuses - apologize once, then move on. |
|
|
Do not project an over-bearing, "know-it-all" attitude. |
|
|
Don't smoke or wear perfume. |
|
|
Avoid jokes and excessive laughter - keep your humor on the dry side. |
|
| Be Positive: |
|
|
Do not ask questions that might raise red flags - too many questions about bonuses, salary, and vacation may cause the interviewer to think you're more interested in what his company can do for you than what you can do for the company. |
|
|
Never badmouth your current or previous boss, employer, or associates. |
|
|
Never express intolerance or prejudices - leave it at home. |
|
|
Do not discuss personal problems or financial needs - leave them at home, too. |
|
|
Tip: bring six copies of your Resume to the interview -read more resume advice in the Resume Center. |
|