How to Have a Successful Job Interview

The job interview can be more important than your experience or qualifications. Your first impression is going to be what the interviewer remembers of you when you leave, and it sets the tone for the interview. If the interviewer doesn't think you're professional, he won't even look at your resume, and you won't be considered for the position. Here's are a few suggestions for having a smooth, relaxing and confident job interview.

Don't Be Late

If you are late the first time you go to meet a future employer, it shows that you don't prioritize the job interview, and that you most likely have a habit of being late. Make sure you show up to the interview at least 10 minutes early. You don't want to intrude on the interviewer's time, so don't arrive more than 15 minutes early. Wait outside the building if you must.

Don't Use Your Phone

Leave your phone in the car if you can, to avoid it ringing or buzzing during your job interview. Otherwise, turn it off. Don't look at the phone if you are waiting in the interviewer's office, or during your interview. You don't want to appear as someone who texts, browses and uses social media all day. Finding a text message or seeing a social media post that bothers you could also upset you before the interview.

Bring All Necessary Items and Answers

Don't assume that the interviewer still has a copy of your resume and your cover letter. Bring the items to the interview, along with any written letters of recommendation that you have that would be applicable to the position. Prepare yourself to respond to common interview questions before you go, so you know what to say.

Avoid Asking About Benefits or Perks

Don't start your job interview by asking about vacation days, holiday pay, or other benefits of the job. Don't ask what your office will be like, how much over time you are expected to put in, and instead focus only on your excitement to be a team player, and to be a great employee. If the interviewer brings up these topics, discuss them briefly but don't dwell on them. Leave the details for a later date.

Avoid Being Negative

Don't talk about things that you don't like, or that bother you, during the job interview. Instead, focus on your positive attitude, how you can work with anyone, and that you can succeed in any work environment. An interviewer won't hire anyone he thinks will be negative won't get along with others in the work space.

Show up for your interview in crisp, clean, business professional attire, with a smile on your face. Additionally, make sure you research the company so you can answer interview questions and have an idea of what you'll be doing. Advance preparation makes a great impression. Your job interview is the first step to getting the job, so be prepared, then relax and do the best you can.

Photo Courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net