This is a re-hash of old news but in never hurts to review before the big test. Here are some key things you must do before and during your upcoming job interview.
1. Research the employer. Find out what they are doing. What are their issues? Google them, read the business press, the niche publications, what do the local papers say about them, read the 10Q’s, everything you can find. As you reading this stuff be thinking only one thing: How can I help them?
2. Research the interviewer and the hiring manager. Google them, read their bios on LinkedIn, Spoke, wherever. Do they write a blog? Did them post a comment somewhere? Take notes, and figure out what it is about this person you will like.
3. Dress one level up from the interviewer. Jeans environment? Wear khakis. Business casual, wear a sportcoat and tie. Guys, iron your shirt. Girls, you are on your own here. I think you know.
4. Make a memorable appearance. Be extra sharp. Tie your tie perfectly. Shine your shoes.
5. Guys. This is a big one. I know you love your cologne. Trust me, the days of slathering yourself up with “Polo OMG I Stink Good” are over, ever since the Senior Prom.
6. Lose the gum. I don’t care if you think no one can tell you are chewing it. They can.
7. Leave your smartphone turned off, better yet in the car. Don’t even think you can sneak one more text in before you get called in.
8. Practice smiling. Seriously. Everyone looks better when they smile. Hey, I said it was a re hash of old things, but good grief, if you are a humorless dolt, and look like it, I am not hiring you. No matter what.
9. Shake hands correctly. Look people in the eye. Take notes. Look fricking engaged in life and in the job interview. Be “cool” somewhere else.
10. Be ready for the common interview questions. And explain why and how you can help me. (BTW, practicing the answers to these questions in front of the mirror is a legal activity.)
10 users commented in " Job Interview Basics "
Excellent tips, G.L. May I add a bonus?
#11. Show respect. “yes, sir”, “no, sir”, “yes, ma’am”, “no, ma’am” are in order. Drop the street lingo, it sux.
Sure David, you can add these basics of respect. Too many of us forget…I’d even add #12, Use Mr and Ms if the interviewer is ten years older, until they give you permission to use their name. Agree with this one?
Yes, Sir, I would agree completely with you
#9. Well, it must not matter much because I can not tell you the number of “people-with-cool-jobs” I’ve met who shake hands like a dead, limp fish.
Very good basic points elaborated very well in simple words. People use to do some mistakes and have to take care of them during the interview especially the Phone point.