The 411 On Interviewing Etiquette

In This Issue:

You have perfected the resume and landed an interview for the perfect job. Congratulations! You think: if they liked me on paper they are going to love me in person. But, while many believe that interviewing skills are just common sense, when you are under fire and the nerves set in, the common sense goes out the window and you react in a not so appealing way. Preparation is the key to a successful interview. Follow these key pointers to perform your best in an interview.

Research. Do a little research before the actual day of your interview. Visit the law firm or corporation’s website and see who their key people are. If you know who the interviewer is, look up their profiles and know their background. Be sure you know their exact address and if you need to, take a test drive to the location the day before so you can figure out where you are going to park.
Be on time. If you have done your research you know exactly where they are located and how long it should take you to get there the day of your interview. Plan ahead and leave 20 minutes before that estimated time. As my father would tell me, “if you are on time you are late”.
Turn off all cell phones. Prior to entering the building turn off your cell phone or leave it in the car. You will not need it so you might as well not take the chance of it going off.
While you’re at it…..leave the coffee, sunglasses, newspaper, etc. in the car. You should not bring anything with you besides a copy of your resume and one personal belonging (purse, briefcase).
Dress appropriately. Make sure you have the appropriate attire for the interview. If you are not told ahead of time what the dress policy is always assume business attire. I have never heard of anyone not getting a job because they wore a suit to an interview. However, I have heard of someone not getting the job due to being inappropriately dressed.
Be prepared for questions about your resume. The employer wants to learn about your past experiences to see if you would be the right match for them. If you can not answer the simplest questions about your past and present employment they are not going to be impressed. Study your resume thoroughly and practice answers to those questions that are going to be asked. For instance, “why did you leave ABC law firm in 2007?”. Know your strengths and weaknesses and be prepared to discuss your character traits as they would relate to the job. Also, be prepared for those surprise questions. You may have an interviewer who wants to stump you with a thoughtful question. If you are relaxed and prepared, these questions will not fluster you.
End the interview on a positive note. When the employer is ending the interview, shake hands firmly and say you appreciate the chance to interview for this position. It is also a good idea to reiterate your interest in both the law firm/corporation and in this role in particular.

Along with these tips always remember to be yourself and believe in your ability. A splash of confidence will go a long way when you are selling yourself to your future employer.