Interview Protocol 101

Whether you’re a first time job seeker or deep into your career, it helps to “refresh” our brains of the basics when it comes to interviewing for a job. Some tips?

Arrival: Show up to your interview 5-10 minutes early. Anything more or less than this is running the risk of looking too eager or unorganized.

Cell Phone/Pager/Laptop: Doesn’t matter if you’re in your interview or sitting in the lobby, you are not to pay attention to any technology. Silence (better yet, turn off) all of your gadgets before you even enter the building. You can be unconnected from the outside world and commit your time to your interviewer…they are doing the same for you!

Beverage in Hand: Do not (I repeat, do not) bring your morning java into an interview. First off, it’s distracting and second, If you can’t part with your daily jolt for an interview, what does that say about your priorities? Actions speak louder than words…food for thought.

Eye Contact: Be confident, but not cocky. Maintaining eye contact with your interviewer is key to showing that you’re engaged in your conversation and interested in what they have to tell you. Looking down or off into the distance can give off an indifferent vibe and can potentially insult your interviewer.

Reference the Company: Yes, researching the company is a fantastic idea. You should know exactly what you’re walking into, otherwise, how do you know if this is a company you want to be a part of? When referencing the company, don’t be on the surface; mention something deep within your research that really caught your eye.

Closing Argument: “Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you” – This is something that everyone is going to say. What is the point of an interview? To stand out and beat your competition to the finishing line of “you’re hired.” Think of something else to say - Make it short, sweet, to the point and something you really mean. No I won’t give you a line; you have to think of it!

What else? What helps? What have you done, or seen others do, that has stuck out?

Recruiters: What do you think?

Comment by Jennifer Olsen on January 7, 2012 at 12:27pm: These are all excellent reminders! When preparing for an interview I suggest that candidates do their research on the company so that they can tailor their answers to matter to the interviewer. The goal is to stand out and be remembered as well as to show that they will make a positive contribution to the company. I offer additional tips on interview skills in my recent blog, “Distinguish Yourself – Interview Tips for Job Seekers” http://springboard.resourcefulhr.com/?p=1935

Comment by Glenna Halligan on January 7, 2012 at 12:41pm: Jennifer - Thank you for the comment and I totally agree! I will also check out your recent blog!

Comment by Megan Bell on January 9, 2012 at 10:48am: Answer the question the Interviewer is asking - nothing more, nothing less. Don't give the same old answers either - find a specific time that you demonstrated the skill they're asking about and give that example. If you can't bring your top A-game for a 45 minute interview, then how can I let you work for us?

Comment by Glenna Halligan on January 9, 2012 at 10:58am: Megan - thank you for your comment and very true! It's amazing what we "forget" is the best way to perform in an interview...especially being on the other side for so long!

Comment by Rickie Long on January 9, 2012 at 11:14am: Practice saying your key points about your skills and accomplishments out loud. The spoken word sounds different than what you say in your head. And remember to smile.

Comment by Glenna Halligan on January 9, 2012 at 11:33am: Rickie - Thank you for your comment and great tip!! Saying answers in your head and speaking them out loud are two very different things...especially when talking about yourself - Thanks again!

Comment by Elise Reynolds on January 9, 2012 at 3:03pm: A short and sweet list of things to remember.

I think it is worthwhile to remind candidates to turn off the electronics or leave them in the car. I had sort of forgotten about that. Also to show up early.

What I am still struggling with is a dress code. Especially for positions where the employees typically dress very casual on the job. I am finding more candidate that don't even own a suit! I recommend slacks, starched dress shirt and loafers, tie not necessary. What do you guys think?

Comment by Rickie Long on January 9, 2012 at 3:14pm: I agree that a suit may be too much, but I think the tie is necessary with a white or other light colored long sleeve dress shirt. A jacket is not necessary. Its acceptable to add a sweater in cold weather. Its is better to be remembered for being more professionally dressed than others than for being too casual which can be interpreted as a detriment.

Comment by Megan Bell on January 9, 2012 at 3:16pm: I used to recruit for skilled trades jobs - where they would be in dirty jeans and greasy shirts 100% of the time in a factory environment - I still had my Candidates dress in khakis, polo and nicer boots/shoes - it's an interview and this is their time to impress. Suits are overrated - unless they're going in for a management role or something in legal or finance. And JC Penneyoffers really great deals on both mens and womens professional wear - so advise them to get at least one nice interview outfit/suit.

Comment by Glenna Halligan on January 9, 2012 at 4:11pm: Elise and Megan - Thank you for the comment and I agree! It's better to be professional, but it does depend on what job you're going after. Working at a staffing firm, I have seen it all when it comes to the dress code. I would agree that the more suits I see are related to interviewing for Accounting/Finance type roles. I always say look and feel your best...so whatever your power outfit is (on the professional level of course), go with that!

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