Interview Protocol 101
Jan
6
Written by:
Glenna Halligan
1/6/2012 3:22 PM
Whether you’re a first time job seeker or deep into your career, it helps to “refresh” our brains of the basics when it comes to interviewing for a job. Some tips?
Arrival: Show up to your interview 5-10 minutes early. Anything more or less than this is running the risk of looking too eager or unorganized.
Cell Phones/Pagers/Laptops: Doesn’t matter if you’re in your interview or sitting in the lobby, you are not to pay attention to any technology. Silence (better yet, turn off) all of your gadgets before you even enter the building. You can be unconnected from the outside world and commit your time to your interviewer…they are doing the same for you!
Beverage in Hand: Do not (I repeat, do not) bring your morning java into an interview. First off, it’s distracting and second, If you can’t part with your daily jolt for an interview, what does that say about your priorities? Actions speak louder than words…food for thought.
Eye Contact: Be confident, but not cocky. Maintaining eye contact with your interviewer is key to showing that you’re engaged in your conversation and interested in what they have to tell you. Looking down or off into the distance can give off an indifferent vibe and can potentially insult your interviewer.
Reference the Company: Yes, researching the company is a fantastic idea. You should know exactly what you’re walking into, otherwise, how do you know if this is a company you want to be a part of? When referencing the company, don’t be on the surface; mention something deep within your research that really caught your eye.
Closing Argument: “Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you” – This is something that everyone is going to say. What is the point of an interview? To stand out and beat your competition to the finishing line of “you’re hired.” Think of something else to say - Make it short, sweet, to the point and something you really mean. No I won’t give you a line; you have to think of it!
What else? What helps? What have you done, or seen others do, that has stuck out?