You might be surprised how many people don’t
do what should be obvious preparation for face-to-face interviews. You can mess
up an interview by doing any of these things:
Be late: there are valid and invalid
reasons. Call ahead and explain. Prepare
in advance by getting contact names and telephone numbers. Know exactly how to
get there; do a dry run if possible.
Be odorific: Avoid this by practicing good
hygiene. Avoid things that create bad breath. Alcohol, smoke and food
seasonings like garlic on your breath will make you unattractive.
Dress inappropriately: Only lost luggage
can explain away this one.
Be totally unprepared for the questions:
There are standard types of questions. Prepare with practiced answers. Practice
out loud with video if possible. Listen to what you say, how you say it and watch
your body language. Learn from it.
Make politically incorrect comments, swear,
be negative, berate your employer, don’t smile, and talk too much (monopolize
the conversation) during the interview: These things will end your chances
quickly and it should be obvious to avoid making them, but given things I have
heard in interviews, I wonder how obvious.
Karl has been reviewing resumes for people at no cost since 1999. He has been counseling job seekers since that time as well. If you would like his help, email him at kl@hoochresumes.com