PRACTICAL INTERVIEW ETIQUETTE
OK, very few of us like the interviewing process. Unfortunately,
you've got to face the music once in a while. Keep these few
nuggets in mind when you're going on your next interview or if
you want to advise a colleague:
Be very very honest - if an interviewer senses at all you are
being evasive in answering questions or are trying to fudge your
way through questions, you're doomed.
Recognize that the interviewer is looking both at your knowledge
and your thought process on how you would approach problems -
for instance, if you get a "how would you build a 150 story
skyscraper" question, just take a deep breath and start talking
through how you would do it. Saying things like "it's
impossible" shows lack of initiative and creativity and will
negatively impact the interviewer's perception of you. Don't
lose your cool - the interviewer may intentionally be trying to
get you off balance and see how easily they can frustrate you.
Stay the course and don't allow the interviewer to get under
your skin. Answer questions thoughtfully; not laced with
emotion.
Show passion - interviewers will want to see how much excitement
and energy you're going to bring to the job. Be passionate about
the job, the company, and the products the company sells. Coming
in with the excitement of cottage cheese will not leave the
interviewer with a comfortable feel you are going to attack
problems.
Be on time, dress nice, and smell good - These are very easy to
control and can only help in the impression you make. Make sure
your clothing is in-style, conservative, and fits you
appropriately. Wearing a suit from the 80's that doesn't button
around your midsection might not be the best attention-getter.