The Do’s and Don’ts of Interviewing

Interviewing for a new job can be time consuming and stressful (some may argue it’s tougher than having an actual job!). Don’t let the anxiety of it all prevent you from having a successful interview.

Follow the “Do’s and Don’ts” below to ensure you have your best interview ever.

The Do's

1. Arrive at the appropriate time:

Make sure you know the exact time and location of your interview and if feasible, take a ride out to the location the day before to know where it is and how long it will take to get there. On the day of, arrive about 20 minutes early and then wait until about 5-10 minutes before your start time to go in. Your interviewer is likely on a schedule and it may be uncomfortable for both parties if you go in too early and are waiting for more than 10 minutes.

2. Ask Questions!

Prior to your interview, do adequate research on the company you are interviewing with and come up with 3-5 questions to ask at the end of the meeting. It is always good to have extras in case your interviewer covers your questions while talking about the position. Along with the 1-2 questions left over from your initial research, take an interest and follow up on something your interviewer said during your time together. This will show that you (1) took initiative prior to the interview and (2) that you were listening while the interviewer was talking. Stumped on what to ask? Try a few of these most popular questions.

3. Send a thank you note:

Whether it’s an email or a hand-written note, this last step is crucial to the interview process. Make sure to ask for your interviewer’s business card. If you forget, do your own research online or call the company’s main number to see if the receptionist will give you their contact information. In your note be sure to express how much you enjoyed meeting with the interviewer, why you would be a good fit for the position, and reiterate your interest in the role. After that, reward yourself for a job well done and visit one of these great Buffalo eateries!

The Don’ts

1. Get too comfortable:

It’s great to feel relaxed and confident with the person you’re interviewing with. However, it’s important to keep in mind you are not hired yet. Though your interviewer might laugh when you throw in a curse word about your current employer, deep down they are probably thinking about what could come out of your mouth when you weren’t in a formal situation. It’s great to be honest and show your personality, as long as it is your best professional self.  

2. Speak negatively of your past (or current) employer:

No matter how bad your current boss or work environment may be, an interview is not the time to be airing grievances.  In addition to it being a major turnoff to potential employers, this will likely cause your interviewer to think:  

Does this candidate have unrealistic expectations of their manager?

Will they be a pain to work with?

Will they leave this company and bad-mouth me?

This doesn’t mean you have to pretend your current situation is all rainbows and butterflies, but proceed cautiously. You're much better off taking the approach that you’re looking for a new challenge or this particular opportunity is what you've always been looking for!.

3. Ask questions about vacation policies or compensation:

While this is important information, the initial interview is not the time to hash everything out. This can all be taken care of if/when an offer is made. The purpose of an interview is to find out if you are a fit for the role in both your skillset and personality. Any unsolicited mention of money or perks will cloud the intent of the meeting. If you are asked about your salary requirements keep your answer in general terms and try out some of these tips. 

 4. Drink coffee!

Do everything possible to avoid coffee breath.