Things You'll Need:
- honesty
- attention
- a sense of reserve
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Step 1
In these economic times, landing a job interview is valuable. You don't want to ruin your chances by doing or saying something that might make an employer dismiss you. Here are a few things you may not have considered that could make a big difference.
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Step 2
If you've been called for an interview, chances are that your resume and cover letter have sufficiently impressed a prospective employer to the point where he/she wants to meet you and see if you would be a good fit for the position. Naturally you are anxious to show your best self. Don't let your excitement trick you into talking too much or divulging information that there is no need to reveal at this time.
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Step 3
First impressions are key. Obviously you want to dress conservatively. Something you may not have considered is the wearing of religious or political jewelry. Unless you are applying to work for a church or church-owned company (hospital, charity, etc), or for a political organization, do not wear or display any jewelry that asserts your affiliation. Why? The interviewer may have strong views on these topics (most of us do) and your jewelry may tell him that you are not someone he wants on his staff. Though you have the legal right to wear it on the job as long as it's not impeding your work, I would still avoid it. Work is work, and the more work-focused you are, the better. Obviously, you will also want to avoid bringing up religion or politics in your interview.
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Step 4
Always take a copy of your resume with you, and if you suspect you will be interviewed by more than one person, have extra copies. This shows forethought on your part, and that you are eager to have them know your qualifications.
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Step 5
One of the more common interview questions involves asking you to describe a situation you have faced and how you handled it. Plan for this ahead of time by researching the company you are hoping to work for and find an instance in your past work history that you can talk about. Don't be caught unawares.
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Step 6
If asked about your hobbies or interests apart from work, be honest but give no indication that these interests might interfere with your time at work, or will encourage or require you to take time away from the job. Avoid talking about your children's activities and how you go to every one of them - that will make an employer think you will be asking for time off on a regular basis. These things can be worked out after you have been hired. If you have a firm commitment to something and cannot get out of it, DO mention it. If you teach a class, for instance, be sure to tell them when it is and how long you are committed to it.
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Step 7
ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS send a follow-up letter the same day as your interview, thanking the interviewer for his/her time. Remind him of your interest in the position and how committed you will be to the company if hired. Keep it short, and be very positive even if you don't think the interview went as well as you had hoped. A follow-up letter goes a long way to making a good impression. Many people don't bother to send one, and it could be the difference between you and the others who applied. It shows that you indeed want this job and acknowledges the interviewer's time in talking with you.
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Step 8
Research the company and ask questions, but be discreet about what you ask. Don't ridicule a product that failed, don't ask why they have certain policies as if you find them silly. Listen and ask intelligent questions based on what the interviewer says.
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Step 9
This is a basic rule, but deserves to be repeated: don't badmouth a former employer, no matter how badly you were treated. When asked why you left, do not say that you had personal differences with an employer or a co-worker. It will give the impression that you cannot get along with people. Give a vague answer along the lines of, "I felt that I had progressed as far as I could with that company." If you were fired, give minimal details.
