Interviewing Tips

You may not realize that answering a cell phone or giving a flimsy handshake could cost you serious points in an interview. Don’t fall victim to these simple mistakes, which can be easily avoided with a little common sense. Keep in mind every action counts when you are trying to impress a potential employer. Follow these tips to ensure you get a good start to your interview.

• Arrive on time to your interview
• Turn off your cell phone or pager
• Bring extra copies of your resume
• Give the interviewer a firm handshake
• Wear appropriate business attire
• Limit your use of cologne or perfume
• Research the company prior to your interview
• Write clearly when filling out an application
• Never bad mouth your previous employer
• Focus your questions on the job not the salary
• Show enthusiasm about the position and company
• Provide detailed answers to the interviewer’s questions
• Appear confident by maintaining eye contact
• Ask the employer questions
• Use proper grammar, no slang
• Spotlight your strengths not your weaknesses
• Do not reveal too much about your personal life, stick to your job experience
• Link your past experience to the needs of the employer
• Be clear about the direction of your career
• Keep body language in mind, no fidgeting or slouching
• Send out a thank you note after the interview