Interview Prep 101: Do’s and Don'ts

Applying for a job is the first step in starting an amazing career. Step 2 is to nail your interview. Sometimes, interviews can be a place of stress and the unknown of what they may ask can intensify the worry. The best way to cope with this stress is by learning what they may ask or discuss during an interview. In this article, I will run through some of the do’s and don’ts of being interviewed.

Do:

• Before coming to your interview, do some research about the company you might work with. What may some of your responsibilities be? What is their dress code?
• Dress the part! After your research, show up to your interview dressed in their dress code. There’s a saying of “dress for the job you want, not the one you have.” So if you’re applying for an office position, wear business-casual clothing. If you’re applying to be a server, all black or neutrals could be a good option.
• Prepare! There are some questions asked in almost every interview that you can prepare for. Plan some points for the following questions: Why do you want to work here? What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? If you prepare, it will ease your stress.
• Bring a hard copy of your resume. It is always good to bring in a second copy of your resume to ensure they have it on file and can look over it with you. Bringing in a hard copy will also help you seem prepared.
• Be aware of your body language. Sitting upright with squared shoulders will project a feeling of confidence. Keep your arms uncrossed to appear open, and nod your head to show you are listening intently.
• Listen! Pay attention to what the interviewer is asking you.
• Ask questions. If you are confused about something, or just want further clarification, do not be afraid to ask questions! Asking questions will show that you are taking a sincere interest in the position and company.
• Conduct yourself with respect. Showing respect for the surrounding people can make or break an interview. Be kind to the person who greets you, your interviewer, and whomever else you might meet along the way.

Don’t:

• Go in unprepared. Trying to “wing it” may seem like a good idea, but it works against you to be unprepared. You may appear irresponsible to the employer.
• Dress down. Most people make a judgement based on your appearance. So if you show up to an office interview in sweatpants, the interviewer may make the assumption you are lazy or unprofessional.
• Slouch, cross your arms, or scowl. Body language shows your authentic emotions. So slouching might make you come across as bored. Scowling will show that you are uninterested and maybe frustrated.
• Be distracted. If you don’t pay attention in your interview, you might miss important information or an important question.
• Lying during an interview also works against you. On your resume you provided references, so your interviewer can easily make a phone call and discover the truth behind why your last job ended.
• Conduct yourself with disrespect. Being rude to the person offering you a job is a great way to be unemployed. Especially if you’re applying for a position where you’ll work with the public. This may make the employer think you cannot interact with customers in a friendly way.

Hopefully, this list of do’s and don’ts helps you feel more prepared for your upcoming interview!

Take a deep breath and go in with your head held high. Good luck, you’ve got this!

 

Sources

20 Crucial Job Interviews Do’s and Don’ts. LiveCareer. (2023) https://careersidekick.com/job-interview-dos-donts/