Etiquette Rules for a Top-Notch Interview

During a job interview, there are several guidelines you should follow to make yourself look good in front of your potential new boss. The etiquette of interviews is an essential part of the success you are hoping for in landing that job. 1. Know the Company Do your research on the company you’re hoping to work for. Find out what their services and products are all about. Find out who their competition is as well as who their customer base is. Most companies have a goal that everyone is trying to achieve together, find out what that goal is. Getting inside the mind of the company will assist you in knowing how to best sell yourself. 2. Dress for Success Dressing professionally will be the easiest aspect to getting the job you want. Your clothing should be free of wrinkling and there should be no stains. Your shirt should be tucked in neatly and your shoes should be without scuffs. Whatever you’re wearing, make sure it makes you feel good and brings you confidence. 3. Make Sure you’re Prepared Ensure you bring additional copies of your resume and a copy of your past job references. Put it all into a folder neatly. Think about what you’d like to know about the company prior to the interview. 4. Don’t Be Late Being late for an interview is one of the worst things you can do; it’s actually recommended you arrive ten minutes early. Allow extra time in case of traffic or not being able to find the address right away. 5. Show Your Appreciation Show that you are happy to have the opportunity. Make eye contact and shake their hand with energy and confidence. 6. Be the Listener An important aspect to an interview is listening to the needs of your potential employer. This is one of the most important interview skills to hone. 7. Answer the Question Appropriately Listen to every word in the question that you are being asked. If you aren’t sure what the exact question was, ask for clarity. It doesn’t reflect well on a candidate if they answered a question that was never actually asked. It shows the potential employer that you don’t pay attention to detail. 8. Be Specific An effective way to be specific is to prepare your stories. You know what the questions will be regarding your past employment. Let them know what your past success was in a clear example and prepare your explanation on why you are unique. 9. Ask Questions It doesn’t look good to the potential employer if you don’t ask questions. They may interpret this as you not listening or not being interested. You will also lose the opportunity to find out information that will be useful to you. 10. Post Interview Follow Up It is important to send a follow-up letter to be remembered during the hiring process. It’s one more reminder that you are interested in the position and is a leg up on the competition.