1. |
DO arrive 10-15 minutes early to
use the restroom, find offices, allow for any unexpected traffic
problems, and to RELAX. |
2. |
DO get a good night's sleep the night
before to be mentally alert for the interview. |
3. |
DO express enthusiasm. Smile and
offer a firm handshake upon meeting the interviewer and other
staff; speak clearly and directly, and vary the tone of your
voice. |
4. |
DO remember and correctly pronounce
the names of people you meet (or are speaking with over the phone). |
5. |
DO use "please" and "thank
you" when appropriate. This courtesy should be extended
also to your network and anyone else involved in your job search. |
6. |
DO answer interview questions completely. |
7. |
DO sit up straight, maintain good
eye contact, lean slightly forward in your chair. Show a sincere
and polite interest in the job as well as in the interviewer. |
8. |
DO dress appropriately and appear
well-groomed. |
9. |
DO practice answering difficult,
illegal or "too personal" questions. |
10. |
DO come alone - Don't bring a relative
or friend. |
11. |
DO get information about the company/organization
ahead of time. |
12. |
DO talk about your qualifications
rather than your need for the job. |
13. |
DO treat secretaries and receptionists
politely - they are important allies. |
14. |
DO have some money with you. You
may need to make a phone call or buy some coffee. |
15. |
DO listen to the interviewer. This
will avoid asking questions about material that has already been
covered. Also, take time to clarify any questions you are asked
that you don't understand. |
16. |
DO indicate your interest in the
job by saying, "I hope you will consider me for this job",
or "I am very interested in this position because…". |
17. |
DO thank the interviewer when the
interview is over. |
18. |
DO jot down your impressions (after
you leave) of the interview and what you might do differently
next time. |
19. |
DO follow-up the interview with a
phone call or letter. |
20. |
DO ask questions in the interview. |
21. |
DON'T forget to bring
an extra resume and list of references. |
22. |
DON'T ask questions about pay and
benefits before you have a job offer. |
23. |
DON'T act as if you have to have
this job no matter what. |
24. |
DON'T interrupt. If you have questions
or need clarifications, wait for a logical break in the conversation
to speak. |
25. |
DON'T bring up personal matters (personal
problems, financial matters, health issues). |
26. |
DON'T criticize former employers
or co-workers. |
27. |
DON'T chew gum, smoke, play with
your hair, or constantly adjust your clothes. These actions are
a definite distraction. |
28. |
DON'T read any papers or handle any
item on the interviewer's desk. |
29. |
DON'T bring anything bulky to the
interview such as books, shopping bags, or overly large briefcases.
A small notebook and pen, for note taking is acceptable. |
