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Interviewing Tips

• Go alone.
• Do not chew gum, smoke, or eat in the reception area or during the interview.
• Maintain good posture in the waiting room and during the interview.
• Try not to be too nervous or too relaxed.  A mild amount of anxiety is healthy; it keeps you alert and responsive.  Too much anxiety makes you jittery.
• Greet the interviewer by name.
• Let the interviewer offer the handshake.  If you do shake hands, use a firm grip.  A limp or cold handshake indicates insincerity and lack of character.
• Follow the interviewer's lead.  It is the interviewer's job to control the flow of questions.  The interviewee controls the answers.
• Answer questions honestly.  If anyone in the company finds out that you have lied, you'll be eliminated immediately.
• Try to say more than just yes or no.  For example, "Yes, I can take instruction without getting upset.  That's one way to learn something new."
• Don't be floored by surprise questions such as "What can I do for you?"  Answer frankly and matter-of-factly. "You can interview me for a job."
• Let your enthusiasm, ambition, and sincerity shine through.   Keep your interview from getting boring.
• Look directly at the interviewer when speaking and listening.  Maintain eye contact.
• Don't look at your watch or out the window.
• Use proper grammar. Avoid slang. Don't use offensive language.
• Don't talk too much or too little.
• Be ready with your questions to ask.  Try to establish when the company plans to make its decision and whether the interviewer will let you know, or if you prefer, when you call back.
• Don't flatter the interviewer.  This may be misinterpreted as trying to butter up the person.
• Don't interrupt.
• Follow the interviewer's cue to end the interview.
• Thank the interviewer.
• Thank the receptionist as you leave.

This page was last updated on 09/20/04.