Important Job Interview Do’s and Don’ts for Jobseekers
Getting a job interview is not easy. But when you get one, you should not leave any stone unturned to outperform other candidates and always stay ahead of them. A job interview is a platform that allows you to show your talent and prove your worth to the company. It is your chance to convince the hiring manager how you will be an asset to their business. Do not forget that you get only one shot to impress the recruiter. The following do’s and don’ts list helps you to ensure that you keep your best foot forward.
Interview Preparation
Do’s
- Sleep enough the night before the interview to ensure that you are not stressed out the next day.
- When you go for the interview, make a list of everything you’ll need to know.
- Once you’ve accepted the interview invitation, double-check that you’re familiar with the company’s name, as well as the names and job titles of the people who will be interviewing you. Check their LinkedIn profile to know more about their background and experience. Knowing something about an interviewer’s profile can help you make the best impression.
- Do consider the type of job interview you’ll face. If HR does not volunteer the information, do not hesitate to reach out to them to inquire further.
- Inquire about the duration of the interview(s) so that you can plan for the rest of the day accordingly.
- Arrive early. Arrive 20 minutes early at the very least. It is never acceptable to arrive late for a job interview. Inform HR if you are running late.
- Carry a few extra CVs with you for the interview. Even better, if you have a portfolio of job skills, present it to the interviewer.
Don’ts
- Getting a job interview does not mean that you have already gotten a job offer. That is incorrect, a blunder, and the furthest thing from reality!
- During the interview, do not answer calls or reply to the text. Make sure your phone is either switched off or on airplane mode.
- Do not inquire about leaves, bonuses, benefits, and health insurance until you get shortlisted. It is a big NO that you must remember during the interview.
- Do not come across as needy as if you will accept any offer that comes your way.
- Do not just nod your head for a yes or no. If feasible, provide a detailed explanation. Describe your relevant expertise, capabilities, and determination.
- Sit properly. Do not slouch.
- Speak clearly and confidently, as if you’ve done your homework.
- Do not bring up or discuss any personal or family matters.
Appearance and Demeanor
Do’s
- Do thorough research on the company and look at their website or LinkedIn page before the interview. What image do the company, its culture, and its employees project? If the interview calls for business formal, wear a decent shirt and pair it up with trousers.
- Maintain a pleasant demeanor and smile when you greet the interviewer. Make sure to convince the interviewer that you want to hear more about the opportunity.
- Carry a notepad with you if you need to scribble down anything relevant to the job.
- Shake hands firmly and make eye contact to display confidence.
- Stay calm and relaxed.
Don’ts
- Wearing a strong perfume is a big no. Avoid wearing bold dresses.
- Don’t dress shabbily in an attempt to fit into the company’s culture. Wear smart formals. It’s preferable to dress somewhat more formally than is required than to arrive at the interview dressed too casually, as this gives the impression that you’re not serious about the job. If you’re unsure, dress a little more than you believe is required.
- Crossing your arms or using body language that makes you appear walled off is another big no.
Interview Questions
Do’s
- Prepare for your interview by focusing on the skills and expertise that make you a good fit for the job.
- Make a list of relevant details about the position and the employer and essential components of your qualifications that make you a strong applicant.
- Investing the time to learn about the firm and the position will help you recall what you want to say and allow you to incorporate your expertise into your responses to their queries.
- Make a point of highlighting your accomplishments and achievements. It is your chance to show off a little. Just make sure you’re self-aware and humble about it. Discuss times when your previous employer gave you extra responsibility.
- Use your strengths to offset your flaws. You’ll need to figure out your shortcomings.
- Make a truthful representation of yourself. Be yourself and talk about what sets you apart from the other candidates.
Don’ts
- Any information that isn’t necessary should be left out. The interviewer is curious about you, irrelevant stories or material can distract the interviewer. Provide responses that are relevant to the role and organization.
- Remember to pay attention to what your interviewer is saying and use that information to respond to their questions more specifically.
- When you have a query or need clarification, don’t interrupt your interviewer; instead, wait for a moment to offer short questions.
Questions for Interviewer
Do’s
- Inquire about their specific concerns, and explain how your background qualifies you to handle them.
- Inquire about the company’s performance. Going prepared with queries demonstrates that you are interested in the company.
- When they respond to your queries, take notes to show that you’re interested in what they’re saying and want to go over it again later.
Don’ts
- Most interviews conclude with an opportunity for the applicant to engage in conversations that have not been discussed. However, you must not wait until the end of the interview to ask questions. As the conversation progresses, ask questions and demonstrate initiative and confidence. The more conversational you can make the interview, the better relationship you’ll build with the recruiting manager.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got these job interviews do’s and don’ts under your belt, go ahead and ace your interview!
