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Dos and Don'ts of the Interview

So once we have adequately prepared for our interview, and are mindful of some of the traps that lie in our path, what general points do we need to heed?

There are some basics that must be noted.  You may well read these and think that we are trying to teach Grandmother to suck eggs, but you would be amazed at the frequency we hear of candidates breaking these general rules.

1. Do arrive at the interview a few minutes early.  Late arrival is never excusable unless there is a VERY good reason for it.  If you are going to be late through no fault of your own, contact us to warn the client.  It is the professional thing to do.

2. If the employer presents you with a form to complete, do so with willingness and thoroughness. 

3. On meeting your interviewer for the first time, do make good eye contact, do smile, do shake their hand with a good, firm grip, and do generally give the impression of being pleased to be there.

4. Don't smoke, chew gum, or as one candidate did, pick your nose!.

5. Don't give monosyllabic answers to questions; explain yourself and your situation...engage in conversation.

6. Do stress your achievements, using your brag file to illustrate and provide evidence of your claims.

7. Don't make derogatory remarks about your present or previous employers.

8. Don't ask about salary, holidays, pension plans, etc.

9. Do thank the interviewer for their time at the end of the conversation and shake hands as you leave.

10. Do send the interviewer a quick email when you get home, reiterating your interest in the role and expressing a hope that you will hear positively from them soon.

So there we have it.  Ten basic, but useful points to remember when attending any interview.

Back next week with more...