Worst things to say or do at the interview
By Conny, 29th Jun 2010 | Follow this author
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Posted in WikinutJobsInterviews
When you managed to get an interview, the last thing you want is to screw it up.
Worst things to say or do at the interview
Some, who are experienced in interviewing, know exactly how to handle the situation. Some get a little nervous, but manage to pull it off. And then there are those who are clueless about what to say or do at an interview.
It should be obvious that you cannot show up late. It leaves a bad first impression and given that fact that several candidates are being interviewed for one job, it disrupts the schedule of the interviewer. So, leave the house with plenty of time to spare.
It should be equally obvious that you should dress the part. Office jobs demand office attire. That means a business suit, court shoes, no flashy jewelry and if you use make-up, do so in moderation.
Don’t wear perfume or cologne. A lot of people are sensitive to strong scents and you might just give your interviewer a sneezing fit or headache.
Don’t show up with an anything less than a perfect resume. Creases or stains on the paper are unacceptable. Your resume should be carried in a folder or envelope.
Upon greeting the interviewer, don’t shake his hand as if you are afraid of touching him. Give a firm handshake, and if you can manage it, smile.
Don’t walk in front of the interviewer. You have no idea where he is taking you.
Upon entering the interview room, don’t sit, wait until a seat is offered to you and then don’t slouch. There is no need to sit like a soldier, but don’t get too comfortable either and resist crossing and uncrossing your legs.
Don’t fidget. Interviewers know job candidates are nervous, but there is no need for putting those nerves on display.
Don’t comment on your surroundings. That means no compliments on pictures of people or pets. You should be concentrating on your interviewer, not his possessions.
Don’t joke and don’t chatter. Chattering is another sign of nervousness and a waste of time. When replying to a question, be concise. By all means, blow your own horn, but don’t overdo it. An interviewer can spot a phony a mile away.
Don’t bash precious employers or co-workers. Even if you didn’t like them, you should have something positive to say about your previous employment. Stating that you learned from them is to your advantage.
Don’t swear. Swearing is absolutely unacceptable. It will kill any change you might have had.
Don’t ask about salary, the company benefits or how much vacation time you will get. Wait for the interviewer to touch on those details.
Show an enthusiasm and eagerness for the job. An I-can-take-it-or-leave-it attitude will not score you any points.
Comments
29th Jun 2010 (#)
Great advice, especially for someone like myself who gets nervous at interviews. This article has universal appeal. Don't forget to click 'follow me' on my page Connie!
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4th Jul 2010 (#)
A must read for everyone who is looking for a job...
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4th Jul 2010 (#)
Thank you Anna, I'll have a look at your work too.
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