Interviewing Do's and Don'ts

So, you just landed an interview for an exciting new job! Now what? Exceptional interviewing is essential to locking in your position and preventing someone else from snatching it from underneath you. Attending an interview can be a really nerve-wracking experience, but if you sufficiently prepare yourself, you can almost guarantee a smooth and productive interview. Here are some tips for successful interviewing! 

1.First and foremost, do your research! Gather as much background information as you can on the company and its employees. You must be prepared to answer questions such as “What do you know about our company?” and “What made you want to apply to our company?”. Preparing yourself with background information will allow for a more interactive interview. Google the company, check out their website or even call to inquire about the position. 

2.Practice, practice, practice! Look up some commonly asked questions and frame your responses. Sometimes, you can be caught off-guard by certain questions, so try to prepare yourself for anything. Don’t be afraid to take a moment to formulate a concise response. Taking a moment to organize your thoughts is much better than blurting out whatever pops into your head. Make sure to answer the questions fully, and if you are not entirely sure what is being asked, ask them to clarify. 

3.Put your best face forward! Make sure you are looking your best on the day of your interview. Dress up, no matter what the position is. If you look put-together and polished, you will convey that you are organized and responsible. It also communicates that you respect the process and your interviewer’s time. Make sure your hair and makeup is simple and neat. Men, make sure to shave your face! Make sure you are on time. And by on time, I mean 15 minutes early. It’s better to wait in the parking lot for a few minutes than to risk being late. Also, if you’re a smoker, I suggest that you refrain from smoking prior to the interview. I know it’s hard, especially when you’re nervous. But if you’re rippin’ butts all the way to the office, you’re going to smell like an ashtray and it’s just not pretty. Just don’t do it; wait until afterwards. 

4. Try to stay calm. It is so important to be positive and upbeat. Don’t let your anxieties turn you into a nervous wreck. Try to portray confidence and security. Take a few deep breaths right beforehand and don’t forget to smile! 

5. Watch your body language. Try to consolidate your things into one bag. Leave any unnecessary things in your car. Studies show that showing up with too many things in your arms portrays disorganization and forgetfulness. Keep it simple! Sit up straight and try not to fidget. Try to read your interviewer’s body language as well. This way you can pick up on non-verbal cues as to whether you’re talking too much or too little, or whether you’re answering the questions correctly. 

6. Don’t curb your enthusiasm! Don’t forget that one key aspect of the job interview is to show your interest and excitement for the job! Some people try so hard to keep themselves composed that they mask their enthusiasm. Don’t be afraid of coming off desperate, just don’t over-do it; be genuine. 

7. Get excited! One of the best ways to overcome your nerves is to focus on the excitement about landing this awesome new job! Don't let your anxieties swallow you up. It’s okay to be nervous; most people are when it comes to interviewing. But don’t freak yourself out. Get excited and tell yourself why you’re perfect for this job. If you can’t convince yourself of that, you’re going to have a pretty tough time convincing the interviewer.  

8. Practice disaster relief. No matter how prepared you are, there is a chance you may make a mistake during the interview process. We’re all human and we all do stupid things sometimes, especially when we’re nervous. If you misspeak, acknowledge it and move on. Don’t dwell on it and don’t make a big deal out of it. Although your interviewer is looking for great answers to their questions, seeing how you deal with a blunder can also be beneficial (as long as you do it right!) 

I’ll share with you one of my most horrendous, embarrassing moments in an interview and maybe it will help you feel more at ease. I was in the middle of answering a question when some sort of humungous, terrifying bug flew right by my head. Not only did I start swatting at the thing like a mad-woman, but I let out a shriek and an “ohh s***!!!”. Yup. I did that. It was awful. The woman just looked at me with utter disbelief. I felt myself turn 10 shades of red, then said “I am so sorry. Please pardon my language; I’m just terrified of insects.”, and then I picked right up where I left off and finished answering the question. Somehow....someway..I got the job. Now I’m sure not everyone would be so forgiving. And you definitely should not be swearing in an interview. But if you make a little mistake, simply apologize and move on; it just might be okay!