How to Conduct Yourself on a Job Interview

During a job interview there are some classic things that always work or that get a positive nod from the interviewer. This article will cover some of those key things to remember while you're interviewing for a job.

Things You'll Need

• Clean professional suit
• A smile
• Copy of resume
• Portfolio or breif

Instructions

1. Dress professionally. Contrary to the popular opinion of today, how you dress still says a lot about you, in particularly on a job interview. As a former interviewer, I always took note of what a person wore to their first meeting with me. It gave me an idea of what this person thinks of them self, what they thought about their meeting with me and coincidentally the job they were interviewing for. Lastly, it showed me what I might expect to bring into the company should I hire the individual.

2. A smile. This is subjective and depends on the type of company you have applied to and the type of position. Regardless of either, however, you would need to smile at first contact with the interviewer. From this point though, your smiles should be sparse if applying for a job that requires a cosmic security clearance. The interviewer will probably be looking for how focused and serious you are. If, however, you are applying for a more customer related position, you may want to turn the smiles on a bit more, as the interviewer might be looking for how you will interact with their customers and/or how warm you are.

3. Good posture. While being interviewed, be conscious of your posture. Don't slouch in your chair or curve your back forward, sit straight up, women should keep their feet together or even crossed at the ankle. Posture can communicate confidence and attentiveness.

4. Use correct grammar. When necessary, speak in complete sentences. The interview may take a more personable turn, this is fine, the interviewer may do this on purpose to help you to relax or to see a different side to your personality. It is imperative however, that you remember that you are applying for a position within the company and this is not your new best friend. Remain professional but do relax and join in in the casual banter.

5. Keep your answers brief and direct. Do not ramble when answering questions. You just want to answer a question, not give too much, unasked for information.

6. Have a copy of your resume on hand. A lot of employers ask to see it again just to check your level of preparedness (are you just prepared or did you go the extra mile).

7. Ask questions. If the interviewer opens the floor to you for questions, be prepared to ask 2 to 3. Inject some key points of information regarding the company. To do this you will need to read about the company before the interview. Also, if possible ask a question that leaks your knowledge level of the position you've applied for.