The 10 Nevers of Interviewing

Interviewing is a single elimination sport. There is no consolation bracket to get back in. You can get knocked out of the competition at any stage. Be prepared to win, and consider these 10 points.

1. Never be late. This goes without saying. First impressions, right? As a rule, be there at least 15 minutes early.
2. Never forget to bring copies of your resume. They will probably have it, but be prepared and have several copies with you. In their minds, it’s a reflection on how you will prepare for business meetings or sales calls.
3. Never dress casually or act unprofessional. Dress in business attire for the occasion. It’s always better to over-dress than to under-dress. Never chew gum or tobacco. Never smell like smoke, etc. All obvious stuff, but you would be surprised at what people do.
4. Never show up unprepared. Look at the company website, and look up the interviewers beforehand on LinkedIn. With all of the information available today at our fingertips, there is no excuse for not doing your homework. Anticipate questions you may be asked beforehand and be ready. Project yourself into the job and have a mental plan of action in your mind for the first 6 months. Be ready to articulate it. A written one to share is also impressive.
5. Never arrive without good questions. Interviewing is like a sales call; you uncover a need and try to fill it. Find the real need by asking good questions. You are interviewing them as well, so this is your chance to learn more; about the job, the company, the manager, the culture, etc. Just make it an even exchange.
6. Never avoid eye contact or send negative non-verbal messages. Hiring managers will watch how you communicate and try to envision you interacting with their customers and employees. It’s important to make eye contact, try not to fidget or appear overly nervous, listen carefully, and answer questions accurately and concisely. Never ramble when answering questions, and never do all the talking. Listen 60% and answer 40% as a rule.
7. Never bring up compensation, benefits, or vacation time in the interview. It’s a mistake if you do. They will think that it’s all about money with you and that you would leave them for the next best offer. If they bring it up, it’s okay, and it’s a buying sign. Answer their questions openly and honestly, and follow their lead.
8. Never bad mouth your current company and/or manager. This just comes off wrong, and they could think you can’t work well with others or have a problem with authority. Also do not share anything that would be considered confidential information.
9. Never waste anyone’s time – be seriously interested. No one has the right to waste anyone’s time. Be seriously interested, or don’t go on the interview.
10. Never fail to close for the next step in the process, if you are interested. First ask if there are any concerns regarding your background and fit for the position. Address anything that is brought up, then close for the next step. Also be sure to send a follow-up email after the interview. This seems silly to mention, but check your spelling and grammar carefully before sending. Lastly, a good touch is to offer a list of three business references as part of your close.

Remember, first impressions are key. You know the saying, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Or as I like to say, “If you are going to be there, be there.” Of all the interviews, the first face-to-face with the direct hiring manager is the most important.