By Joanna Boydak, LiveCareer
You finally secured that coveted interview and the mass of butterflies in your stomach
won't let you forget it. Pre-interview jitters are normal and expected, but don't
let your anxiety make you forget basic rules of etiquette. Avoid these interview
faux pas if you want to get past the hot seat into your new office.
- "Ummmm, I'm not sure why I put that on my resume" is definitely not the right
answer. Be able to respond to questions about your resume and your work experience.
Practice articulating why you want the job and why you're the best candidate for
it. Role-play in front of a mirror or with a friend. Being prepared will pay off…maybe
even in the form of your next paycheck.
- Showing up late because of the line at Starbucks is a sure-fire way to get
dismissed as a potential hire. Showing up late—or even too early—can automatically
ruin any chance of getting off on the right foot. Show up ten minutes before the
scheduled time—no earlier, no later.
- Badmouthing your ex-boss when asked why you left your past position is TMI!
Interviews are not therapy sessions, so sit up in your chair and keep the topic
strictly professional. Skip the gritty details and keep your personal opinions to
yourself because they will more than likely backfire.
- Answering your cell phone mid-interview shows lack of respect. Before you
walk into the office, make sure to turn off your phone, spit out your gum and throw
on a smile. Nothing can shatter your chance for a job like an unexpected phone interruption,
gum smacking or perception of a disgruntled attitude.
- Flip-flops with a suit don't cancel each other out to equal an appropriate
interview outfit. Your appearance plays a major role in the direction of your interview.
Dress standards vary across all industries and organizations, but the common rule
of thumb is to dress to impress. Read more on
interview dress for success…
- Bringing up $$ - Although it may seem like the elephant in the room, never
be the first to bring up money. When it comes to salary, timing is everything and
if the timing is off, it can ruin your chances of ever finding out what the number
was going to be. Be strategic and wait until the hiring manager opens the gate for
this topic first.
- Asking the hiring manager to be friends on facebook right after the interview
doesn't count as a follow up—it's just creepy! Hiring managers expect you to follow
up after an interview, but with a thank you note. It shows enthusiasm for the job
and helps refresh their memory of the connection you may have shared. A thank you
letter or email takes only minutes to complete and can significantly distinguish
you from a crowd of applicants.
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