It’s always a great feeling to be asked to interview for a position with a new employer. That feeling is then, unfortunately, replaced quickly by sinking dread. However, when you are preparing to go in for an interview, being nervous can distract you from some of the most important things that you need to be focusing on. So, the next time you get a call, take a minute to remember the four things you should never do when you go in for an interview.
1. Disregard Your Presentation
The first thing you need to consider before you go in is your outward appearance. People will make snap judgments about you based on your appearance, and there is no reason to give anyone cause to overlook you just because you don’t have a style that fits with the office culture. Look into the office dress code before you decide what to wear, and make an effort to dress like someone who would fit in perfectly at their office. You don’t want to try to fade into the background, but save the major style statements for another day. Stand out with lines and fit, rather than bright or distracting clothing and accessories. Make sure your car is looking good and that you have something to carry your resume in. Get a tote, shoulder bag, or briefcase to carry your things.
2. Neglect to Interview Them
We can get so caught up with striving to be desirable when we go in for an interview that it’s easy to forget that we are also there to see if this position will work for us, as well! Make sure to do some research on the company and list any questions you have for them or talking points that you would like to address further. Failing to ask your interviewer questions about the position looks immature, and it comes across as though you are not in very high demand or are not seriously considering whether the position is right for you.
3. Don’t Understand Why You Deserve the Job
You should have a very clear idea in mind about what the duties for the position will be, and why you are uniquely qualified to take them on before you interview. Even if the position is a little mundane, or someone with any degree could easily fulfill the requirements, make a list of specific experiences you have had that prepared you to take on this job now. Write down why you deserve the job and why you will be a good fit with this company, just so you can get it clear in your own mind. This is very important because, if you don’t know why you deserve the job, how will anyone else believe you do?
4. Be Clueless About Why You May Not Deserve the Job
As important as it is to know why someone should hire you, it is just as important to know why they shouldn’t. Take some time to list all your hesitations about why you may not be qualified or deserving of the position. Things like long breaks in employment or being fired from your previous job are always difficult to talk about during an interview, but it’s important to bring those things to light, at least for yourself. Next, figure out how you will work to overcome those potential limitations. Or, even better, think about ways that your unique experience may have provided you with even better preparation that what the average candidate may have had. If you are clearly able to address your limitations with your interviewer, he or she may be less likely to write you off for things that would usually get someone’s resume thrown out.
Byline:
Jane Smith is a freelance writer and blogger. She writes about criminal background check for Backgroundcheck.org. Questions and comments can be sent to: janesmth161 @ gmail.com
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