Job interview can be doomed by small details
By Anita Bruzzese
Often it's the simplest things that trip us up. We forget to tie a shoelace and —boom! — down we go, into an ungraceful heap on the floor.
It's the sugar left out of the cookies, the stamp left off the envelope and the forgotten lid on the can of worms that cause all kinds of problems in life.
The same is true when interviewing for a job. We show up a few minutes late. We have a stain on a shirt. We can't recall the interviewer's name. Not huge problems — just big enough to get us tossed out in favor of someone who doesn't let the little things trip him up.
Interviews, of course, are nerve-racking. That's why even the most cool-headed individual can make a small mistake that can cost her the job. Interviewers often focus on the little things because they lead to wondering what big things you would fumble.
Unfair? Perhaps. But it's a fact of life that most people form their first impression of you within 20 to 30 seconds. That means you've got to get it right the first time, because you may never have a second interview.
The "must" list for good interviewing includes:
• Being on time. Interviewers often believe that if you're late for an interview, you may be late for work. Give yourself time to get to the location, go to the restroom and check your appearance. You don't want to meet the interviewer breathless because of a sprint from the parking lot.
• Wait patiently. Bring a newspaper or magazine to read while you wait. Make sure any reading material isn't gossipy or racy; stick to daily newspapers or weekly newsmagazines. Don't fidget or pace or complain to the receptionist if you're kept waiting. Interviewers often consult all employees who have had contact with you about their impressions.
• Look presentable. Men should wear ties; women should wear nice suits or dresses. Don't forget the details: shoes shined, nails clean and neat, no rips or tears in clothing, little or no jewelry, and conservative hairstyle. Some interviewers are turned off by piercings anywhere but in a woman's ears, or by tattoos. Save your personal expressions for after the interview.
• Don't get too chummy. While interviewers try to get you to relax enough to learn more about you, they're also alert for someone who reveals not-so-flattering traits. Stick to talking about professional skills and abilities, and avoid talking about personal tastes.
• Stay positive. Don't make negative comments, whether about a former boss ("What a jerk!") or your taste in movies ("Chick flicks are so stupid!"). Companies are often leery of hiring anyone who seems too caustic or opinionated, because other workers may have trouble getting along with such a personality.
• Speak clearly. Never have gum or candy in your mouth during an interview, and keep your hands away from your face when you speak. Work to eliminate chronic vocal hiccups — "uh," "you know," "like," "OK." And no profanity.
• Sit up straight. Don't fidget with clothing, a purse or briefcase. Link your hands loosely in your lap.
• Always maintain eye contact with the interviewer.
• Have questions ready to ask. All interviewers will say, "Do you have any questions?" They expect you to ask some, and will probably count against you if you don't. You can always ask, "What do you like best about working for this employer? What do you think is the most important trend in this industry?"
• Leave on a positive note. Always ask what happens next, and when the interviewer will be in contact. Leave with a firm handshake, a "thank you for your time" and a smile.
