So
you've landed an interview. Congratulations! You now
get to waltz into an unknown territory, not knowing
the exact job parameters (one never does), and try
to get someone you know nothing about to feel as though
they can't work another day without you - all in one
hour.
Yes,
an interview is a stressful situation. The company
has already decided that you possess the skills required
to do the job. Now you just have to get them to like
you - and to realize that no one can do this job better
than you can. While you're remembering all of that,
here are some things you SHOULDN'T do:
1.
Never let them see you sweat. No matter how nervous
you are, you've got to create a way to overcome your
fear. Being nervous won't hurt your chances. Acting
nervous will.
2. Don't leave your cell phone on. I know of applicants
who have actually answered their cell phones in the middle
of an interview! Needless to say, the recruiter terminated
the interview immediately.
3. Never answer the question, "What is your greatest
weakness"
with a true weakness. No, you're not lying, it's just
that "Because I like to ensure that projects I'm
responsible for are done right, I have a hard time delegating," sounds
better than "I tend to procrastinate."
4. Never fail to send a thank you note any later than
24 hours after your interview. Whether it's typed or
hand-written, it will put you in the forefront of an
interviewer's mind as they're picking their top candidates.
5. Don't look like a slob. It's OK if you out-dress your
interviewer. You are, after all, the one looking for
the job. Tuck in your shirt, straighten the knot on your
tie, and pick your most conservative suit, regardless
of your political affiliation.
6. Don't over-accessorize. Too much of a good thing makes
a good thing not so good. So take it easy on the perfume,
jewelry and makeup.
7. Don't be late. You only have one chance to make a
first impression. Don't make the wrong impression before
you even meet your interviewer!
8. Don't give a limp handshake. Upon meeting someone,
extend your hand, look the other person square in the
eye, and make sure the "web"
between your thumb and forefinger touches their "web".
This portrays confidence. Limp handshakes do not. (Would
YOU hire someone who lacks confidence?)
9. Never criticize a former employer or boss. Although
this may be hard to do, it makes you appear conniving
and deceitful. Don't do it. This may mean you will have
to practice to be prepared to answer the question,
"Why did you leave your last job?"
10. Don't forget to smile!
Jennifer
Stupp, PHR, is a former Corporate Recruiter and HR
Manager. She is the owner of First Choice Résumés
and Career Coaching Service, located online at www.FirstChoiceResumes.net.
For
more information, questions, or concerns contact HoustonJobs.Com
at sales@houstonjobs.com.
