- BE PREPARED: Research the company. Google the company and also any social media links that you can find. If they are on Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin, read their latest posts. Also try to know a little bit about the person that will be interviewing you. Know the company’s mission statement.
- BE ON TIME: What is on time? On time is 10 minutes early. Arriving 10 minutes early will let you get settled, mentally prepared, and gives you a few minutes to go over things you need to remember about the company and also the questions you want to ask. Fewer people are wearing watches today — as we rely on our cellphones for time management. A watch is a nice accessory to wear on an interview. It visually conveys many things about you. So be sure to remember to wear a watch.
- TURN OFF YOUR IPHONE, BLACKBERRY, IPOD & IPAD: In fact leave those items in the car. You don’t want your phone to ring, buzz, or vibrate during the interview. Also glancing down to look at text messages is about as common as breathing these days. I would venture to say glancing down at our phones is almost an involuntary response — kind of like breathing — so don’t be tempted to sneak a peek. It is disrespectful.
- WHAT TO WEAR: You want to mimic the style, tone, and dress that the company follows. When in doubt kick it up a few notches. It’s better to be over dressed than under dressed. Never wear perfume. Keep accessories to a minimum.
- MEET & GREET: That first seven seconds you meet someone is the most vital. Know how to give the best handshake. There are 6 different handshakes all conveying different meanings. There is only one right way to give a handshake. A handshake is the only physical contact you are going to have with that individual — so make it work for you. Make sure you smile and have confident eye contact.
- WOW THEM WITH YOUR GRACIOUSNESS: A thank you note received within 24 hours of the interview is like liquid gold. It hits many senses. It’s tactile, people touch it. It’s visual they read it. It’s one more way to be seen in a positive light. Write it in your car after the interview. Drive to the nearest post office and mail it immediately. Just remember the 3, 3, 3 rule. It should only take 3 minutes to write, have at least 3 lines, and mail with in 3 days. Always aim to mail within one day though — but no later than 3 days.
