Job Interview Tips

Have a job interview? Here are some tips you might not have considered before.

Research the company.

You've got to know the company you're interviewing for. What are their core values? What are their latest projects? What is their purpose? Who is the founder or the CEO? Knowing the company will prepare you for the interview in more ways than one. The interviewer might ask you what you like about the company, or why you want to work for them, or what you might contribute to the company. Researching the company will help you answer those questions, and it may also help you realize you do not want to work for them.

Dress the part, but dress clean.

Different jobs require different dress codes. Looking too dressed up might actually work against you for certain job positions. Looking dressed down could have the same effect. It depends on the job position. Dress the part, but dress clean. Whatever you're wearing, wear clean clothes and please shower.

Eat smart before the interview.

Don't eat food that might give you gas, and don't drink carbonated drinks that will make you burp continually. Don't overeat so you won't have a suffering bladder. But, don't skip a meal - no matter how nervous you are - because a growling stomach makes for awkward moments during the interview. Don't eat food that might put a stain on your clothes either. Just be smart.

Carrying a stain remover like Tide To Go or Shout Wipe & Go can be a life saver in case of accidents. Also carry breath mints.

Bring copies of your resume.

You might have submitted your resume to them already, but in case they lose it or don't have it ready, be prepared. Have at least 2 copies of your resume on you.

Be honest.

Sounds like a given, right? Yet a lot of people lie or bluff their way through an interview, especially if they don't know what to say. If you don't know the answer to a question, say so. Unfortunately, saying "I don't know" makes you look bad. Instead you can say, "Nothing comes to mind right now, but...." But you have experience in the area, but it was part of your education, but you're a fast learner, but you'll get back to him/her later. You can show that even though you may not know the answer at the moment, you know how to get the answer.

Have a firm handshake. Keep eye contact. Have a good posture.

All these things show your confidence, but not ego.

Have questions ready.

The interviewer might ask you if you have any questions for him/her. Most people say no, but go home with a load of questions. Think ahead and list any questions you may have. Read our post on some questions you may ask in a job interview.

You should always put your best foot forward, but a job interview is usually the first (in person) impression, which makes a huge difference in whether you are hired or not. So be prepared, plan ahead, and go with confidence!