Be on time. Make eye contact and truly listen to what the interviewer is
saying. Make sure that you and your clothes are clean and that you don't wear
any heavy cologne or perfume. Bring at least two extra copies of your resume
(more if this is a group interview with more than one staff member) and anything
they asked you to bring, like reference letters or contact information for
references or previous employers. Don't look at your watch continually, stare
out the window as if you'd rather be somewhere else, or yawn constantly. You are
being given the opportunity to demonstrate how you will perform should you be
offered the job. Show interest in your future. If you don't, they won't either.
Watch What You Wear
Even if you are interviewing for the position of janitor, you still need to
dress nicely. Always dress in nicer clothing for an interview than you will wear
to work when you get the job. Men, wear a suit with a tie and a clean, pressed
shirt that is neatly tucked in. Wear a belt and dress shoes with dress socks.
Shave and clean under your nails. Women, wear pants, a dress, or a suit and
comfortable shoes that are classy. A nice blouse, simple jewelry, minimal
make-up, and a simple hairstyle. Nothing overtly sexy or revealing. This is not
a date. It's an interview.
You Are Interviewing Them, Too
Don't just sit there waiting for your chance to talk or nod constantly as if
they could ask you to make daily trips to the moon and you'd do it. You don't
want to appear desperate no matter how much you need the job. Remember, they
need you as much as you need them because you are the best person for the job.
Don't be afraid to ask why it is that this position is open. Toward the end of
the interview, when they ask if you have any questions, take the opportunity to
find out what the future of the position is, if there is room to grow with the
company, what the pay is and the standard for raises. Stand up for yourself.
Anyone who doesn't ask how much they'll be making or what the benefits are has
questionable instincts and therefore is a questionable candidate for the job.