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11. Don’t sit until the interviewer sits;
doing so shows respect.
12. Watch your body language
.
At least 70% of the messages you send/impression you make, comes from your body language.
13. Sit up straight
.
If you are asked to sit on a soft sofa, test it out before settling in. You’ll feel awkward trying to get
out of those “sink to the springs” sofas.
14. Don’t touch the interviewer’s desk.
Don’t touch anything on the desk or in the interviewer’s office without asking for permission first.
Individuals do not like invasions of their “personal space”.
15. Don’t cross your legs
.
Doing so causes your upper body to slump. Cross your ankles and keep your feet together on the
floor.
16. Keep your hands still
.
Hold on to your notebook if you need a prop. Fluttering hands distract from the message and
make you appear nervous.
Keep your arms at your sides
.
17. Maintain friendly eye contact without staring.
Practice with a mirror if this is difficult for you. What message do you send if you fail to make good
eye contact?
18. Treat the interview the same way you would treat a conversation with any new friend
.
In other words, don’t allow it to be one-sided.
19. Take notes
.
Unless you have a memory like a computer, you won’t remember everything that is said. Taking
notes also displays interest and serves as a reminder to ask questions about things the interviewer
has said. What are some things that would prompt you to take notes?
20. Ask questions
.
If the interviewer fails to offer you an opportunity to ask questions, ask for the chance.
21. Let the interviewer broach the subject of wages and benefits
.
If it doesn’t come up in the first interview, it will later on.
22. Leave the interviewer with the impression that you are enthusiastic about the position
.
A good closing remark such as, “I’m really looking forward to working here” works!
23. Ask for the position
.
Leave the interview with a firm idea of what comes next, including when the next contact will be
made.
24. Always ask for a business card
.
Always
send a thank you note.
25. Let that be your edge!
Section 15 – The Interview Process
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