How to Know What to Avoid in Job Interviews

Making a good impression during a job interview is essential in getting the job. If you have made it to the interview stage, the employer is interested in possibly hiring you and this is the time to let your skills and personality shine through. There are a few things you want to avoid doing during the interview.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Allow plenty of time to avoid being late for the interview.
2. Avoid wearing strong perfume, cologne or aftershave. You want to leave them with an impression of your skills, not a headache from your scent. Make sure you are dressed appropriately.
3. Dispose of gum, food or drinks before entering the interview.
4. Leave your cell phone and pager in the car. It is highly unprofessional and disrespectful to have your phone or pager ring during an interview.
5. Keep your views on politics, religion and any other controversial topics to yourself. Small talk should not include any topics that could be offensive. Never use profanity during an interview.
6. Refrain from making negative comments about previous employers or coworkers. Be positive and upbeat during your interview.
7. Negotiate your salary and vacation time after the employer offers you the job. The interview is not the time for you to bring up these issues. If the interviewer brings it up, it is fine to discuss, but you shouldn't initiate the topics.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not bring anyone to the interview with you. It is inappropriate for anyone else to attend your interview, even if they plan on waiting in the lobby.
• When in doubt, it is better to overdress for an interview than to dress too casually. Also, make sure your shoes aren't scuffed and dirty.

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