As Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams can come true – if we have the courage to pursue them.” But even with the courage to pursue your dreams, you need to follow certain golden rules for sure shot success. When it comes to a job interview, there are certain things you should and should not do to help you put your best foot forward. In this blog we mention a few interview dos and don’ts for your next job interview:
1. What to wear
Do
Do dress appropriately for the role. What you wear to the job interview is quite important, so before you dress up, read about the company’s culture. Check out their website and social media handles. If you feel that business casual would adhere to the company’s policy, dress accordingly. However, if you feel that a strictly formal look would be safer, try out a business suit with formal shoes.
Don't
Don’t dress down. It’s better to overdress so that you don’t appear unenthusiastic about the opportunity. If you’re unsure, just keep it simple. Avoid too much makeup, jewelry, and loud colors. Avoid wearing too much perfume; an overwhelming fragrance might ruin your candidacy.
2. How to make eye contact
Do
One of the important interview dos and don’ts to remember is to make pleasant and fluid eye contact with your interviewer. Keep your eyes steady and make direct eye contact when expressing your opinion or asserting your point. This will show that you’re genuinely interested in the job.
Don't
Don’t look too nervous. Be confident and avoid any awkwardness. Avoid letting your eyes wander, as it’s considered disrespectful and suggests that you are not really interested in the role.
3. How to shake hands
Do
Do greet your interviewer with a smile and firm handshake. Keep in mind that you should offer a full-palm handshake.
Don't
Don’t offer a bone-crushing handshake. A good handshake should be firm but non-aggressive, as you create a first impression with the interviewer that sets the tone for the rest of the process.
4. What to highlight
Do
Do give a concise summary of your career, abilities, and goals. Highlight those abilities and skills that make you a good fit for the organization. This requires thorough research about the company and domain expertise so that you can provide thoughtful answers to the interviewer’s questions. Also, discuss previous work achievements.
Don't
Don’t highlight personality or character flaws when talking about your weaknesses. Try to keep the focus on areas of improvement.
5. What to carry
Do
Do carry a copy of your resume. Keep your things neat and organized in a portfolio for a professional look.
Don't
Don’t assume that your interviewer will have a copy of your resume. If you don’t bring a resume to the interview, you look unprofessional and ill-prepared.
6. How to respond to difficult questions
Do
Do direct the conversation to your strengths in your professional life. Interviewers should not ask personal questions, so it’s best not to disclose any personal information.
Don't
Don’t be rude. Even if you don’t want to answer personal questions, you can politely change the focus towards your work requirements and professional commitment.
7. How to follow-up
Do
Do ask for your interviewer’s business card to send a thank you note following the job interview.
Don't
Don’t be too aggressive; be respectful and tactful in your approach.
8. What to ignore
Do
Do turn off your cellphone. If you accidentally forget to do so, apologize for the interruption. Ignore any incoming call and immediately switch off your mobile.
Don't
Don’t answer any call during the interview. It’s bad etiquette, and your interviewer will surely feel disrespected if you start taking calls.
9. When to arrive
Do
Do arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time. This gives you time to settle down and relax before you face your interviewer.
Don't
Don’t arrive too early, as the interviewer may have some urgent work to complete. Also, you might have to wait longer, which may make you anxious.
Hopefully, these 9 tips on interview dos and don’ts will prove helpful for you in your forthcoming job interview. The best way to handle an interview is to stay calm and composed during the entire process.
If you’re waiting for the right opportunity, register on OLAS here, upload your resume, cover letter, and search for a desirable job on the PNW OLAS portal. Recruiters regularly search OLAS for filling positions with qualified candidates like you, so make the best of every moment and build a bright future!
For more interviews and career tips visit OLAS blogs.
