If you’re looking to land a job, then you’ve probably already accepted the fact that it’s going to be a long process. And if you’re anything like us (and we hope not), then you probably also know that sometimes it can feel like every single job interview is going to be the same!
We get it—it’s hard! But there are some things that everyone should do their best to remember, no matter what type of job they’re applying for. Here are 10 must-dos during a job interview:
- Dress professionally and appropriately for the industry
- Be prepared with questions and statements about yourself and your career goals
- Bring a copy of your résumé
- Don’t forget to smile (and maybe even laugh!) throughout the interview
- Have plenty of time before the interview ends—and don’t rush through any other tasks involved in getting there!
- Take breaks whenever possible
- Get yourself dressed up. Dress well and make sure your shoes are clean and polished.
- Don’t talk about yourself too much! The interviewer wants to hear about your skills, not your resume or other past experiences.
- Don’t fidget! The interviewer is there to see how you handle yourself in stressful situations, so don’t get nervous or start playing with the sleeves of your shirt!
- Maintain eye contact! It’s important that the interviewer sees that you’re listening to what they’re saying and that you’re interested in the job opening.
- Ask questions! If an interviewer asks a question, it’s okay for them to expect an answer from you—and if they don’t ask anything, it’s also okay for you not to volunteer any information about yourself (even though they may have asked). It’s just as important for candidates not to talk too little as it is for employers not to ask too much during an interview.”
- Show up early!
- Dress professionally and appropriately for the job you’re applying for.
- Practice your elevator pitch and answer the question “why are you qualified for this position?” in your head before the interview starts!
- Make sure to ask questions about the position, company, and industry—you never know what might surprise you!
- If it’s appropriate, bring a friend or family member with you to help boost your confidence during the interview process.
- Make sure you’re prepared with a list of questions that will help you get some insight into how this would be an optimal role for you (and vice versa).
- Don’t forget about your manners! It’s important to show respect for both the interviewer and their time, too.
- Be yourself—if they like what they see, they’ll want to talk more with you after the interview
- Dress for the occasion
- Bring a pen and paper
- Practice your handshake
- Don’t be nervous!
- Don’t talk too much, or too little