Interview Tips — DOs and DON'Ts

DO's for the Job Interview

1. DO Eat something light before you arrive.
2. DO arrive before the appointed time. This will give you a chance to relax.
3. DO treat support staff politely and professionally. Interviewers often ask their assistants how candidates presented themselves on the phone and in waiting areas.

4. DO act polite but not over polite. "Yes Sir," "No Sir," and "Thank You" can appear to insincere if used too frequently.
5. Do equip yourself with a strong knowledge of the company.
6. Do have prepared questions about the employer and position.
7. DO bring list of references & their contact details with you at the interview.
8. DO act confident but not over-confident.
9. DO shake hands firmly and stand until offered a chair.
10. DO get the name and title of each person interviewed you during job interview
11. DO speak specifically about your role in any previous successes. Let the interviewer know what you did, said, and thought.
12. DO thank the employer for the interviewing you.

DON'Ts for the Job Interview

1. DON'T use the interviewer's first name unless asked.
2. DON'T take anyone with you to the interview.
3. DON'T smoke or chew gun, even if the interviewer does.
4. DON'T tell a prospective employer about other companies that turned you down.
5. Don't show a lack of interest or enthusiasm.
6. Don't emphasize money as your main interest in the job.
7. DON'T apologize for lack of experience or training; stress your strong points instead, such as you ability to learn quickly, assume responsibility, etc.
8. DON'T watch the clock.
9. DON'T ask to use the company telephone.
10. DON'T put anything on the interviewer’s desk.
11. DON'T mention influential friends or acquaintances in the organization.
12. DON'T try to be funny.
13. Don't yawn, look bored, or look at your watch.
14. Don't take notes during the interview - jot down your notes immediately after the interview.
15. Don't assume that all employers will be delighted to hear of your plans for higher education.
16. Don't rush into an answer you're unsure of. If you need a moment to compose your thoughts, it is okay to have a silent pause. This may be seen as a sign of thoughtfulness.
17. Don't be shy about asking the interviewer to repeat the question or clarify what they're asking if you're unsure of something.
18. Don't respond in basic "yes" or "no" answers—always elaborate.
19. Don't become too familiar with the interviewer. Remain professional at all times.
20. DON'T make elaborate promises.
21. Don't argue with your interviewer, no matter what.
22. DON'T plead for a job.
23. DON'T hang around after the interview.
24. DON'T forget: You are the winning candidate for the job!!!
25. Don't cancel the interview less than 24 hours in advance even if other prospects look much more promising. It makes you look crumbling.