Interviewing Techniques

Tips on Interviewing for a Job

Interviewing

B. Rules of Business Etiquette
To help enhance your chances of making a favorable impression, follow these basic rules:

1. Arrive on time.
2. Introduce yourself politely to the receptionist and state the first and last name of the individual whom you will be meeting.
3. If the receptionist offers you coffee, tea or a soft drink, it might be best to politely pass on the offer. You don't want to risk spilling something and making a mess or trying to juggle your resume folder and a cup.
4. Do not chew gum.
5. Do not smoke. It is also best not to smoke just before an interview, as many people find the residual smell offensive.
6. Introduce yourself to the interviewer by clearly stating both your first and last name. Make eye contact and smile.
7. Say "It's nice to meet you" in your initial greeting.
8. Address the interviewer as Mr.________ or Ms.________ unless you are asked to do otherwise. Don't assume that if the interviewer calls you by your first name you are both on a first-name basis.
9. Be willing to make a bit of small talk, possibly about the weather, the traffic on the way to the interview, or about the interviewer's good directions that got you there.
10. After the interviewer has led you from the reception area to an office or conference room to talk further, do not take a seat until the interviewer motions you to a particular place.
11. Sit straight and relatively still. Avoid distracting wiggling or jiggling of your hands or legs.
12. Fold your hands in your lap comfortably or on top of your resume materials. Do not cross your arms over your chest (It will make you appear disagreeable) or spread them across the back of the chair of couch (It will make you appear too relaxed, lazy, or uninterested).
13. Be attentive when the interviewer speaks. Avoid interrupting, even if the interviewer does most of the talking. Maintain good eye contact with the interviewer.
14. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if you don't understand something.
15. Be positive and upbeat in your remarks.
16. Avoid complaining about a previous job or employer. Whether or not your remarks are true, you won't appear professional if you harp on these subjects.
17. Avoid criticizing, contradicting, or disagreeing with the interviewer.
18. If you are offered a tour of the facility, the interviewer will indicate whether you are to walk ahead or to follow. Women should know that male interviewers may often encourage them to pass through doorways first.
19. At the end of the meeting, thank the interviewer for his or her time and extend your hand for a strong parting handshake. Don't forget to smile and make eye contact one last time.

C. Dress to Impress
As a job hunter, you need to keep in mind that most people quickly form a first and lasting impression of you. Keep your dress understated, conservative, and neat. If you're unsure about what to wear, a good rule of thumb is to dress slightly better than you would to report to the job every day. For example, at some work places blue jeans are perfectly acceptable garb; you could wear casual slacks to a job interview with such an organization.

How do you determine the dress code in your intended work place? Research. Ask around. If it's a public place, such as a bank or restaurant, drop by and observe. If you're still unsure, a suit in a dark or neutral color is almost always a good choice. Wear something you've worn at least once before, just to be certain that you'll feel comfortable and confident. Of course, avoid anything that looks visibly worn, torn, or wrinkled.

Here are some other details that can leave an interviewer with a poor impression.

Women should avoid:

1. Long, unkempt hair. Wear it short or tie/braid it back and keep it conservatively styled.
2. Earrings, bracelets, pinkie rings, or similar jewelry.
3. Too much perfume.
4. Low-cut or unbuttoned blouses or any sign of an undergarment (straps or anything that would show through a sheer blouse or skirt). Going braless is a definite no-no. Avoid stomach showing.
5. Patterned nylons. Plain, sheer hose are best.
6. Tight, short, or leather or suede skirts.
7. Lots of ruffles, bows, or fringe. Remember that you want to appear businesslike and professional.
8. Very high heels, glittery, silver or gold shoes, or open-toed shoes.
9. Exposed tattoos or body piercing's.

If obtaining professional clothes is a financial impossibility for you, visit Dress For Success. This nonprofit organization helps low-income women make tailored transitions into the work force by providing donated suits to job hunters.

Men Should Avoid:

1. Long, unkempt hair. Wear it short or tie/braid it back and keep it conservatively styled.
2. Earrings, bracelets, pinkie rings, or similar jewelry.
3. Too much aftershave or cologne.
4. Unbuttoned shirts.
5. T-Shirts or patterned T-Shirts under dress shirts.
6. White socks or socks that clash with slacks. Also avoid brown shoes with black slacks or vice versa.
7. Pants that are way too long or too low.
8. Novelty ties or leather ties.
9. Sneakers or sandals.
10. Exposed tattoos or body piercing's.

It's often helpful to try a "dress rehearsal" the evening before a job interview. First, you'll have an opportunity to find missing buttons or fallen hems while you can still remedy them. Second, you can ask the opinion of a good friend or relative. Your parents might be able to give you a good opinion of what someone in their age group would think. Finally, you'll have the opportunity to see your put-together, professional self and to gain confidence and poise for the interview.

Times are changing and the fashion of your generation is becoming more mainstream and visible in the workplace. However, it is still advised that you play it safe and dress with style by leaning toward conservative to ensure that regardless of the age or background of the interviewer you will be seen as professional.

<-- back