Advantage Personnel's Interview Suggestions

Many people feel intimidated about going on an interview. While it's natural and in some cases, even beneficial to feel a little nervous, there are ways to manage your feelings so that they don't get in the way of making a good first impression. Going over a list of what to do (and not do) often can help calm nerves and allow you to put your best foot forward. Here is a compiled list of some of the best tried and true suggestions for interview success.

We wish you the best of luck in your job search!

 

Before The Interview

1. Dress appropriately  Employers assume you are showing up at your best, so if your appearance is poor, they may assume your job performance would be poor also. First impressions are very important. A conservative, crisp, tailored look is ideal for a professional man - a dark suit, white shirt and a muted red tie; for a professional woman a jacket is appropriate.

Who would you want to represent your business?

 

1. Be on time  It is best to arrive a few minutes early so you will have an opportunity to check your appearance and gain a head start on any application you would be required to fill out. Punctuality demonstrates interest and responsibility.
2. Know your stuff  The application questions are usually predictable, so go prepared. Take a piece of paper with names, addresses and phone numbers of three references, past employers and schools attended. Also, know your social security number.
3. Come Alone  Showing up with a friend or family members shows the interviewer that you lack independence.
4. Avoid gum chewing and any non-professional habits.

During The Interview

1. Look confident and enthusiastic  Some nervousness is understandable, but you must project confidence. When you are introduced, smile, establish eye contact (which must be maintained throughout the interview), and give a firm (not too strong) handshake.
2. Wait for an invitation to sit  Do not immediately plop into a chair without awaiting a clue. Once seated, maintain your poise by refraining from squirming, hand twisting and foot shuffling. Sit up straight and lean slightly forward.
3. Listen and observe carefully In the flush of the moment, you may not absorb everything you are being told, and you may also miss important nonverbal cues. Discipline yourself to be ready.
4. Be truthful  Admit when you do not know an answer. An experienced interviewer will spot a bluff. Answer questions honestly and openly.
5. Avoid negative remarks  Never criticize former employees, schools, or even yourself, because it will look like you are an insecure complainer. If a previous job turned you off, emphasize the positive aspects, such as having gained experience in the work world.
6. Emphasize skills and accomplishments  Interviewers will generally ask some question which will let you brag a little. If not, volunteer the information at the right moment - usually at the end of the interview. In addition, try to ask some meaningful questions.
7. Be subtle about salary and benefits, etc  Project the very best attitude - telling what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you.
8. End on a positive note  Thank the interviewer for seeing you.

After The Interview

1. Immediately after the interview write a follow-up thank you note  mentioning your strong points. At a later time, you will want to call and check your job status and promote your interest in the position for which you've interviewed.
2. Evaluate the experience  Take note of what you did right. There will be things you should have said and better answers for certain questions. Decide how you will improve.
3. Don't rely on just one job interview  While waiting, continue seeking other employment. Call your counselor at Advantage Personnel.
4. When you do get a job, do it well  Be happy and trustworthy.

Hours of Operation

Advantage Personnel, Inc. is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Contact US

11224 Boardwalk Suite E1-1

Baton Rouge, LA 70816

(225) 273-8900 Office

(225) 273-8909 Fax