Interview Do’s and Don’ts

• Arrive 10 minutes early. Being late to an interview is never excusable
• Clarify questions. Answer the interviewer´s questions as specifically as possible. Relate your skills and background to the position requirements throughout the interview.
• Give your qualifications. Focus on accomplishments that are most pertinent to the job.
• Anticipate tough questions. Prepare to turn perceived weaknesses into strengths.
• Ask questions. An interview should be a mutual exchange of information, not a one-sided conversation.
• Concentrate not only on the interviewer´s words, but also on the tone of voice and body language. Once you understand how the interviewer thinks, pattern your answers accordingly and you will be able to establish a better rapport.
• Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.
• Be professional. Smile, make eye contact and maintain good posture. These are simple but important things that are easy to forget to do during an interview.

• Don’t answer vague questions. Ask the interviewer to clarify fuzzy questions.
• Don’t interrupt the interviewer. If you don´t listen, the interviewer won´t either.
• Don’t be overly familiar, even if the interviewer is.
• Don’t ramble. Overlong answers may make you sound apologetic or indecisive.
• Don’t lie. Answer questions truthfully.
• Don’t express resentment. Avoid derogatory remarks about present or former employers.
• Don’t wear heavy perfume or cologne. The interviewer may not share your tastes.

• Make sure that you have thoroughly answered these questions during the interview: “Why are you interested in our company?” and “What can you offer?”
• Express appreciation for the interviewer´s time and consideration.
• Don´t expect an offer to be made or a specific salary to be discussed during your first interview

After your interview, follow-up is critical. When you get in your car, immediately write down key issues uncovered in the interview. Think of the qualifications the employer is looking for and match your strengths to them. A “thank you” letter or email should be written no later than 24 hours after the interview. Be sure to call your recruiter to discuss your interview and your next steps.