The Arrival Guide

Whether it is a summer part-time position or your first job out of school, you will have to interview for a job at some point. There are things that you can do to be successful in an interview, and then there are those events that can ruin it. Here are some ways to help to avoid them.

Being unprepared sends an immediate sign to the interviewer that the person they are interviewing is not as committed to the interview, and therefore they are not committed to the job. Make sure to research typical interview questions and be ready to answer them in an interview. For example, “What makes you interested in this company specifically?” Knowing basic information about the company is a good thing to keep in mind.

Poor communication is another area that could easily make an interviewee have to continue his or her search for employment. Always display confidence with a firm handshake and constant eye contact. The interviewer does not need to know your life story. On the other hand, answering questions continually with one or two words will not leave a good impression, either. Also, having your phone go off during an interview can make you seem to be indifferent or immature. Leave it in the car. The same goes for lunch, drinks and especially gum.

Dressing inappropriately is an easy mistake to avoid. If you are interviewing for a summer job (lifeguard, golf caddy), neat, casual attire may be in order. However, you may need a suit, or khaki pants and a button up if the interview is for a full-time position. It is always a good idea to go to that business and see what its employees wear to work before you interview.

Talking negatively about previous employers is a key thing to avoid. No interviewer wants to hear about how terrible everyone was at your last job, or how much you hated the boss. Never underestimate the power of connections. This person may be best friends with your previous boss, and everyone at your last employer may be customers of this business. In addition, badmouthing a boss or anyone could make the interviewer wonder if you will talk about them that way in the future if you ever decide to leave.

When interviewing, always be respectful to your potential employer, and use common sense. It is also a good idea to send a follow-up email, or better yet, a personalized letter or thank you note, a couple days after the interview to ensure your interest in the position and to show gratitude for giving you the opportunity to interview with him or her. Even doing everything perfectly will not guarantee you the job, but knowing the dos and don'ts for interviewing will give you the best chance of getting it.

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