• Bring your resume:
Even if you submitted a copy in advance always bring at least 3 copies of your résumé on a good quality plain white paper.
• Be on time:
This should go without saying, but try to be at least 10 minutes early. Being late is never acceptable; no excuses.
• Dress professionally:
For some jobs this could be as simple as a shirt and tie or a nice blouse, but many positions will require you to wear a suit or other very professional attire. Be well groomed, including your fingernails, and be sure to have someone do a scent check for you before you head to the interview. If you are a smoker, chew some gum before your interview instead of smoking so the smell of smoke doesn’t affect your interviewer. Dispose of any gum or candy long before you enter the building. Check your teeth and breath and be sure your buttons and zippers are all closed as appropriate.
• No Cell Phones:
It is never acceptable to talk on your cell phone or to hear it ring, vibrate, beep, or buzz during an interview. Leave it in your car or at home.
• Come Alone:
…Or at least make it appear that way. If a friend drives you to the interview, thank them and have them wait outside. Do not bring children or pets to an interview. (Yes, these things have actually happened in my office!)
• Take Notes:
Be sure to make a mental or subtle physical note of the name of the person you’re interviewing with. Sending a professional thank you note within a few days of the interview can only improve the impression you leave on your interviewer. If they offer a business card, take one. Be sure to get the names of any support staff like secretaries or coordinators as well. Scott will be happy to help you draft a thank you note.
• Be Honest, But Not Too Honest:
You must tell the truth when you respond to questions in an interview, but don't reveal more information than is necessary. This is especially important if you're asked about why you left your last job, why you've been unemployed, or how well you got along with your previous employer. Giving too many details can sometimes be detrimental to the impression you leave on your interviewer.
• Be Yourself: You want your interviewer to be hiring you for who you really are. So relax and be yourself. To alleviate stress before your interview, quietly take deep breaths through your nose, inhaling and exhaling slowly. Sit upright and apply pressure to your toes inside of your shoes, then slowly release. These activities will help to soothe you and take your mind off of what is a difficult process for many people.
Now that you've got the basics down, it's time to make your résumé shine.