Interview DO’s and DONT’s
>> Dress appropriately for the industry to show that you take the interview seriously. Your personal grooming and cleanliness should be impeccable.
>> Find out the exact time and location of your interview; know how long it takes to get there. So that you get there before time. Find a rest room to freshen up, etc.
>> Arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the interview start time.
>> Treat other people you encounter with courtesy and respect. Their opinions of you might be solicited during hiring decisions.
>> Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and have a friendly expression when you are greeted by your interviewer.
>> Listen to be sure you understand your interviewer's name and the correct pronunciation.
>> Even when your interviewer gives you a first and last name, address your interviewer by title (Ms., Mr., Dr.) and last name, until invited to do otherwise.
>> Maintain good eye contact during the interview.
>> Sit still in your seat; avoid fidgeting and slouching.
>> Respond to questions and back up your statements about yourself with specific examples whenever possible.
>> Ask for clarification if you do not understand a question.
>> Be thorough in your responses, while being concise in your wording.
>> Be honest and be yourself. Dishonesty is easily discovered and is grounds for withdrawing job offers and for firing. You want a good match between yourself and your employer. If you are hired by acting like someone other than yourself, you and your employer will both be unhappy.
>> Treat the interview seriously and as though you are truly interested in the employer and the opportunity presented.
>> Exhibit a positive attitude. The interviewer is evaluating you as a potential co-worker. Behave like someone you would want to work with.
>> Have intelligent questions prepared to ask the interviewer. Having done your research about the employer in advance, ask questions, which you did not find answered in your research.
>> Evaluate the interviewer and the organization he/she represents. An interview is a two-way street. Conduct yourself cordially and respectfully, while thinking critically about the way you are treated and the values and priorities of the organization.
>> Make sure you understand the employer's next step in the hiring process; know when and from whom you should expect to hear next. Know what action you are expected to take next, if any.
>> When the interviewer concludes the interview, offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and depart gracefully.
>> After the interview, make notes right away so you don't forget critical details.
>> Write a thank-you letter to your interviewer promptly.
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