Ten Interviewing Rules

Whether you are a first-time interviewer making your first transition to the world-of-work or a seasoned professional, these 10 interviewing tips are essential to your success!

Look Sharp.
Before the interview, select your outfit. Depending on the industry and position, get out your best duds and check them over for spots and wrinkles. Even if the company has a casual environment, you don't want to look like you slept in your clothes. Above all, dress with confidence. If you look good, you feel good.

2. Be on Time.
Never arrive late to an interview. Allow extra time to arrive early in the vicinity, allowing for factors like getting lost, traffic or weather. There’s an old saying, “Early is on time, on time is late & late is never there.”  If you’re late for an interview, it’s probably not worth your time, since the company knows you’ll waste their valuable time.

3. Do the Research.

Research the company before the interview and learn about its services, products, customers and competition. This will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the company's needs. The more you know about the company and what it stands for, the better chance you have of selling yourself.

4. Be Prepared.

Bring along a folder containing extra copies of your resume, a copy of your references and paper to take notes. Review your references before the interview. Also have questions for when the interview is over.

5. Show Enthusiasm.

A firm handshake and plenty of eye contact demonstrates confidence. Speak distinctly in a confident voice, even though you may feel shaky. It’s simply being the best version of yourself even when you’re a little nervous.

6. Listen.

One of the most neglected interviewing skills is listening. Make sure you are not only listening, but also reading between the lines. Sometimes what is not said is just as important as what is said.  Here are some tips to be a good listener.  A good listener:

•    Uses eye contact appropriately.

•    Is attentive and alert to a speaker's verbal and nonverbal behavior.

•    Is patient and doesn't interrupt (waits for the speaker to finish).

•    Is responsive, using verbal and nonverbal expressions.

•    Asks questions in a non-threatening tone.

•    Paraphrases, restates or summarizes what the speaker says.

•    Provides constructive (verbal or nonverbal) feedback.

•    Is empathic (works to understand the speaker).

•    Shows interest in the speaker as a person.

7. Answer the Question.

Candidates often don't think about if they are answering the questions asked by interviewers. Make sure you understand what is being asked and do not hesitate to get further clarification if you are unsure.  It’s better to have a limited answer on a question than ramble on about something you clearly know nothing about.

8. Give Specific Examples.

One specific example of your background is worth 50 vague stories. Prepare your examples before the interview. Give examples that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Your past behavior can indicate your future performance.

9. Ask Questions.

Many interviewees don't ask questions and miss the opportunity to find out valuable information. Your questions indicate your interest in the company or job. Here are some questions you should and should not ask:

What You Should Not Ask in the First Rounds of Interviewing

•    Don't ask about salary, stock options, vacation, holiday schedule or benefits.

•    Don't ask questions that have already been answered in the interview, just for the sake of asking something.

•    Don't grill the interviewer. It's OK to ask about the person's background, but only as an interested party, not an interrogator.

10. Follow up.

Whether it's through email or regular mail, the follow-up is one more chance to remind the interviewer of all the valuable traits you bring to the job and company. You don't want to miss this last chance to market yourself.