So far in the Acuity Job Search Tips Series, we have discussed resumes and the job search process. In this post we plan to discuss some of the faux pas we as recruitment professionals see most often in the interviewing process and how you can avoid them!

The Interview: Acuity Tips #6 – 10

Interviews are a 2-way process when it comes to finding a fit. They provide the opportunity for you as a candidate to evaluate the position. After an interview you should consider the following: did you like the environment, the person who interviewed you, and any further details you heard about the job? Interviews also provide you with the opportunity to elaborate on your experience and demonstrate your interest in a position. To leave a positive impression of yourself and improve your chances of securing a suitable position, keep the following tips in mind.

6. Don’t arrive too early! Plan the logistics of the trip in advance so that you arrive inside at the location of the interview 10 minutes before your interview is scheduled. Arriving any earlier than 15 minutes is too early as hiring managers may have other appointments or interviews scheduled. Show that you respect the hiring manager’s time by arriving on time, but not too early!

7. Turn off your phone. Answering your cell phone or keeping the ringer on during an interview shows a lack of consideration for the interviewer. Leave your phone in your car or turn it off to avoid leaving a negative impression and better your chances of proceeding to the next step.

8. Dress professionally. Show that you are serious about the position by being clean and well-groomed. Keep in mind that some people have allergies, so wear perfume or cologne sparingly, if at all. Dress in a manner that matches the job you are applying for. There are situations where it may be acceptable to dress more casually, but if in doubt, dress to a higher standard than is required.

9. Provide relevant employment references. When asked for employment references, employers typically require work-related references. While personal references are useful to demonstrate character, they will not be able to verify the information that employers often look for. Providing a list of 2 – 3 references from supervisors, co-workers or subordinates who are familiar with your daily duties and will provide the information required. Call each reference in advance to make them aware of the position you have applied for and that they can expect a reference call from the hiring manager.

10. Following the interview: After a few days send a thank-you email to stay connected and show your interest in the company. If you don’t hear back from the employer after two weeks, follow up if you have contact information for your interviewer. Showing interest will help you stand out but excessive calls, emails or contact beyond an initial thank-you and one follow-up is typically not appropriate and may negatively impact your chances of being selected to move on to next steps. Depending on the stage of the process, you may only hear back from the interviewer if you have been selected to move forward. When speaking with the interviewer, feel free to ask about what their process looks like to better understand what kind of contact you can expect.

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