1. Arrive 5-10
minutes before your scheduled interview time. You’ll have to fill out some
paperwork, so come a little early to do so and also to show that you’re prompt.
30 minutes early is a little much, and of course never EVER be late to an
interview. If you can’t be on time to the interview, how will the employer
expect you to be on time to work?
2. The
interview starts the moment you walk in the door. This does not mean you should
ask the receptionist or administrator questions regarding the position, but it
does mean you are being evaluated. Be professional, friendly to any employees
who pass through the business lobby as you wait, and keep conversation topics
light.
3. Dress to
impress. Know the difference between Business Casual and Business Professional. Neither of these mean jeans. Typically, when you schedule an interview with a company, you are told what the
proper attire is. Pay attention, and do your research on how to dress before
you come in for the interview. If you are not told what attire is appropriate,
dress as you would expect employees of that business dress on a daily basis. It's better to be too professional than too casual.
4. Be prepared
with questions for your interviewer. Never ask about compensation on a first
interview, but other than that, ask 1-3 questions. At the end of an interview,
you don’t want to be the guy with no questions. It shows disinterest. Make sure
you research appropriate topics to ask about. Some questions that are good to
ask your interviewer are: “What do you enjoy most about working for this
company?,” “What challenges can someone in my position expect to face?,” and “How
do employees earn opportunities for advancement?”
5. Be honest.
Be honest on your resume, your interview paperwork, and when you answer
interview questions. It does no one any good when an interview candidate tries
to make himself sound better, or cover up issues with past employers. The goal
is for both parties to determine if working together may be a good fit, so when
you are dishonest during the interview, the correct judgment cannot be made.
Also, most experienced interviewers can read signs of dishonesty. Telling the
truth, even if it reveals shortcomings, is always the best idea.
6. Follow up
with a Thank You. Ask for the email address of your interviewer(s) and follow
up with a thank you email within an hour after your interview. This shows
professionalism as well as interest in the position, and it may even give you
an edge on the other candidates.
Copyright 2014 CORE Communications Inc. Houston, Texas
