Interview Tips - Critical Dos and Donts

During the interview, the employer will be evaluating your negative factors as well as your positive attributes:

• Do plan to arrive on time or a few minutes early.
• Do be well groomed and appropriately dressed.
• Do fill out the application form neatly and completely, if asked to do so. Don't rely on your resume.
• Do greet the interviewer by last name. Give the appearance of energy as you walk. Smile. Shake hands firmly. Be genuinely glad to meet the interviewer.
• Do sit upright, look alert and interested at all times.
• Don't fidget or squirm.
• Do look a prospective employer in the eye while speaking.
• Do follow the interviewer's leads. Try to get the interviewer to describe the position and duties to you early in the interview.
• Do make sure that your good points come across. Sell yourself. Stress your achievements and provide details.
• Do conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job.
• Do show your personality; however do not let it take over. Show warmth and honesty so that the interviewer feels comfortable with you.
• Do show enthusiasm.
• Do bring a copy of your resume!
• Don't smoke or chew gum.
• Don't answer "yes" or "no". Explain.
• So speak up and don't mumble.
• Don't lie or hide the truth. It is okay to have made mistakes in the past as long as you are up front about it.
• Don't make unnecessary derogatory remarks about your present or former employers. When explaining your reasons for leaving, limit your comments, don't get personal.
• Don't over-answer questions
• Do avoid politics or controversial issues.
• Don't enquire about or discuss salary, holidays, bonuses, or retirement. Sidestep the issue. You're more interested in opportunity than in a specific salary. Negotiate your salary package after you receive an offer.

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