Things You Should NOT Do During an Interview
I have interviewed people for years. I have a list of things that I consider annoying or even “deal” breakers for a potential candidate.
Top ten list starting with #10
10. Do not wear too much cologne or perfume and preferably, do not wear any at all. Enough said. Whew!
9. Do not forget to bring a copy of your resume and offer to give it to me. We often misplace your resume right before you walk through the door. A fresh copy in your hands is much appreciated.
8. If you do not know the answer to a question, be honest. Don’t try to answer around the question trying to befuddle me. Remember, I know the answer.?Ǭ† If I do not hear it, I know you do not know the answer.
7. Do not avoid a question that requires you to reveal a weakness. We all have weaknesses, so being able to tell me about them demonstrates to me you are “self-aware.”
6. Be ready to explain gaps in your resume. Don’t try to hide them. If you were part of a work force reduction and ended up working at a book store for 6 months while looking for a job - tell me that. If the rest of your experience is good, I am not going to care.
5. Don’t stare at me the whole time. Make good eye contact, but look at something else from time to time. It really becomes unnerving.
4. Don’t put things on your resume that you claim to have experience with - if you really do not. Being exposed to something does not represent proficiency.?Ǭ† I am looking for those things salient to your overall experience.
3. Don’t be late to the interview. Be early. Let me be late - you set the example.
2. Do not talk about issues only in the context of your job experience. Be able to talk about your philosophical viewpoint concisely and demonstrate a deep understanding about the nature of the issue.
1. Do not talk non-stop for ten minutes. Be concise. If I feel like I have to constantly interrupt you, I am not going to hire you. An interview is a two way communication. I expect you to listen as well.
Well, for those of you who have interviews next week, hope this helps you prepare for your 60 minute opportunity to sell yourself.
And one more thing - don’t oversell yourself.
Have a great weekend!
Comment by Heather Mundell
Eric,
Great list! I would add “Don’t forget to ask me good questions that show me you have learned something about the company and that you care about whether the job opportunity would be a good fit.”
Also for afterward, “Don’t forget to send a thank you note” and “Don’t call to follow up too often too soon.” Just a couple of personal bug-a-boos…
Comment by Eric
Heather,
Love your first suggestion. Shows that the candidate is a good listener and interested in the job.
As far as thank you notes, I have written about this several times I think. I personally hate getting thank you cards and in my field, IT, being so competitive, I should be sending them out to the candidates I am really interested in.
Your follow up “Don’t call too soon” is DEAD on. Gosh I hate those calls the next day, even sometimes by the recruiters.
Comment by Jillian
Excellent list, my Love. Except, of course, number 3. I would presonally never work for someone who had shown up LATE for my initial interview.