Tips for a successful interview

While at work a couple days ago a young woman enters the store, and as usual for any entering customer I say "Hi! Welcome to ____". She smiles and continues to walk towards me and my co- worker. I then ask her what she is look for and she replies that she is here for the 3pm interview. I do not know anything about the interview, so I turn to my co- worker that immediately looks at her watch and then at the young woman and says that it was a group interview that started at 3pm and is now closed. The young woman looks a bit taken back as if she did not understand what just happened and asks if there was anyone that she could call to reschedule and the response was no due to the fact that the store manager was the one that gave the instruction. She says thank you and walks out. At this point I have just finished picking my face up off the floor, not because the girl was 15 minutes late, but because she came in a gray jersey knit tunic t shirt, white legging and pink jelly flip flops. WTF!!!

I do not care what the job is there is certain way that you approach an interview and that was not it. Since, common sense is not so common here are a few tips for a successful interview:

Before you arrive:
1. Do some homework. Know about the company and the position for which you are applying. Look online for mission statements, job requirements/duties, any useful figures and future plans. Wow your interviewer with your zest and zeal for the company and desired position.

2. Notice the attire of the current employees and your prospective employer. This is the basis for which you determine what to wear to the interview. If a uniform is worn assume business casual attire.

3. Jot down a couple of questions that you may have for the interviewer. There is ALWAYS a question and answer portion of the interview. This is usually easier after doing the homework mentioned above.

4. Be prepared. If possible, have an extra copy of your resume, references, and the application. Do not forget to have available proof of any certifications that you listed in the application and resume. Best practice it to have a pen and a note pad to jot down any key points that were learned from the interview as well as dates and times.

5. Dress to impress! This is not the same impress advertised at the club. After noticing what your prospective employer wears try to step it up a notch. As the saying goes dress for the job you want not the one you have or the lack there of... First impressions are key.
DO NOT BY ANY MEANS wear anything that is tight, sheer, denim, beach or lounge wear, ill- fitting, too short, non- fashionable, or too loud. Also remember to cover tattoos, and remove piercings.

6. Turn your cell phone off or to silent!!! Think about what is more important, the interviewer or you friend asking about what happened on 24 last night.

In the interview:
7. The interview starts from the moment you walk through the doors, so be on your best behavior. All eyes are on you from everywhere and everyone will have an opinion. Greet everyone you meet with a nice firm handshake.

8. Lean in and appear attentive while the interviewer is speaking. Slouching or fidgeting is a sign that you are bored or not interested.

9. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer when they are speaking and when you are answering questions.

10. Be positive when answering questions about previous employers and co- workers.

11. Use relevant experiences from past jobs to show your skill for the desired position.

12. Be honest when answering questions about experiences and skill levels.

13. Above all stay calm and confident.

Do not sell yourself short. Market yourself to employers like you would a luxury vehicle or posh real estate. You are worth it, just make them believe it too and that job is as good as yours!!!
Happy hunting