Interviewing Information

Standards of Interviewing

GENERAL STANDARDS OF INTERVIEWING

Take a copy of your resume with you to the interview, just in case the interviewer needs it. MAKE SURE IT IS THE ONE WE PROVIDED.

Do NOT be late, if you are detained call ahead and notify them. Make sure that you have adequate directions, and allow enough travel time.

Treat everyone you meet with a genuine smile, eye contact, an energetic "Hello" and a firm brief handshake. (Always stand up!)

When seated, sit with both feet flat on the floor, and leaning slightly forward with your back away from the back of the chair. NO slouching! This not only makes you look Interested, but energetic.

NEVER chew gum, or smoke while in the building, or during the interview.

BE ENERGETIC, not only in your conversation and rate of speech, but in your general actions. Clients do not want someone who fades in the afternoon. They like those with stamina, energy and vitality! Show them that you have it!

Listen carefully to the question of the interviewer, compose your thoughts and then respond. Do not ramble on.

When completing the client's application and you are asked for your Salary Expectations, fill it in with "AS AGREED." DO NOT name a number.

NEVER "bad mouth" or make derogatory comments about your current or previous employer(s). It simply doesn't go over well. Instead explain any bad situations from an objective point of view.

BE INTERESTED IN WHAT THE INTERVIEWER IS SAYING, and in the COMPANY, AND THE POSITION. Be prepared to ASK QUESTIONS when the opportunity arises. (The direction of the department, the market share the company has and focuses on, what projects are down the line, who are the primary competitors of the Company, etc.) It shows you are interested.

BE YOURSELF! It is important that you allow the interviewer to feel that they are seeing the real you. Besides, you probably do that best and you will come across much better. Do not try to memorize answers to potential questions. Instead, give those questions some thought in advance, so you have some ideas ready.

Regardless how the Interviewer talks, NO OBSCENITIES, CUSS WORDS, ETC.

Upon leaving each person you interview with, express "I appreciated the opportunity to speak with you, and I am genuinely interested in this opportunity to work with you and your Company."

Follow up that day, or no later than the following day, with a "Thank-You" letter. Most candidates DON'T, and this not only sets you apart but also reaffirms your professionalism.

STANDARDS OF APPROPRIATE DRESS FOR INTERVIEWING

Please be SURE that you ask us what is appropriate interviewing attire! Many clients are now "Business Casual," and you should interview in like attire.

MEN -FORMAL INTERVIEWING ATTIRE:

Dark business suit (no vest) with a WHITE, nicely-ironed shirt.
Coordinated tie (modern style; no loose or sagging knots).

MEN -BUSINESS CASUAL INTERVIEWING ATTIRE:

Collared shirt, long or short sleeves based on season
Slacks (NOT jeans) "Docker" types are fine

WOMEN FORMAL INTERVIEWING ATTIRE:

Business suit, with coordinated blouse.
Moderate make-up, and long hair pulled back.

WOMEN -BUSINESS CASUAL INTERVIEWING ATTIRE:

Collared blouse, long or short sleeves based on season
Slacks (NOT jeans), or skirt.

MEN AND WOMEN:

Dress shoes with a good shine.
No excessive jewelry.
Excellent personal hygiene (nails, hair, teeth, mouthwash).
No colognes or perfumes (or, if you must, light fragrances ONLY). Some people are ultra sensitive to them, or allergic. Simply avoid it.

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