Interview No-No’s - By Jack Alexander First impressions still count when it comes to getting hired for that new position. You only have one chance to make that first impression and it only takes a few minutes for a prospective employer to decide whether youll be a good fit for the position or not. Just one statement, comment or expression could send the wrong message and knock you out of for the job. Polishing your interviewing skills can help you communicate better and ensure the interview process goes in the right direction. Over the years, I have come up with a list of things that may turn off any prospective employer during the interview process: 1. Your prospective employer is trying to find out what you could bring to the company and is looking for professionalism. Talking negatively about your former boss, coworkers, the work environment, or anything related to the company only spells trouble in the eyes of the prospective employer. 2. Being flexible and eager to learn is one thing, but not having any specific goals or ideas of where your career is headed is quite another. If you cant explain what you expect to bring to the company or position or how this position is a good match as the next step in your career path, the prospective employer can simply conclude that you lack in any direction or have no interest in the position. Most hiring managers are looking for focused and driven self-starters. Make sure these traits come out strongly during your interview to increase your chances of getting hired for the position. 3. Obviously, you want the job--thats why youre interviewing for the position, but do not come off as too desperate during your interview. Follow up with the hiring manager with a simple thank-you note and then wait for the response. Too many follow-up calls, letters, or emails can turn off the employer. 4. During the interview process, arriving for your scheduled interview time is important when making that first impression. Arriving earlier than 10 to 15 minutes for the interview could make you seem desperate. Arriving late communicates the message of I cant keep my appointments and I have very bad time management skills. This will not win you any points with your prospective employer and will lead the hiring manager to believe this is how you treat your customers as well. Plan your schedule around the big interview so you dont arrive too early or too late. Being punctual is a way to show respect and will earn some extra points! 5. Most interviewers wont even bring up salary ranges and benefits until the job offer is extended. Dont bring up the salary with the hiring manager during your first interview unless you are asked. Your first interview should focus only on what you can bring to the position and cover any questions you have about the nature of the position. Think about what makes you hirable--your skills, your traits and other things you bring to the company without the money in the picture. Prove you are the best candidate for the job, regardless of salary and benefits. 6. Some behaviors can send the wrong message to the hiring manager. Looking at your cell phone, tapping your feet or fingers, or avoiding eye contact are a few signs of nervousness. Make sure youre mentally prepared for this interview and do your research on the company, position and hiring manager as well. Confidence is always an attractive quality and you need to prove to the hiring manager that you truly are the best fit for this position. A great way to gain confidence is to study the background of the company and know the position you are interviewing for. 7. The ability to toot your own horn is often appreciated, but dont over do it! Even if you were at the top of your team at your former job, dont let that be the focus. If youre getting ready to start a new job and career with this company, you need to show the hiring manager what value you can bring to them in the future. While your accomplishments and successes are a valuable addition to the resume, your interview needs to focus on what you plan to do in the future and how you plan on helping this company be successful. Unless the interviewer asks for a rundown specifically, dont make this interview about your success story. Shift the focus to key skills and talents you have that will help your new team and company instead.
Posted on: Thu, 26 Jun 2014 16:11:18 +0000
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