THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW...

Here are some relatively simple, yet often overlooked tips to having a successful interview. These tips would apply to any position that you would be interviewing for.

As a general rule things to avoid include: excessive jewelry, shorts, jeans, tee shirts, open toed shoes and very bright colors. It is advisable to cover tattoos or pierced body parts! While these personal expressions may be in style, the business world for the most part frowns on them...

Even if a position would involve wearing casual dress on the job," business casual", rules should be followed for the interview!. If you are ever unsure dress professional!

As a general rule, you should always plan to arrive at least half hour early. This will allow you time to get a drink of water, use the restroom if necessary, and relax somewhat. To accomplish this, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the interview location a day or two in advance if possible. Such things as knowing your route and how long it will take to arrive should be accounted for. Plan for the worst (traffic jams, parking problems, etc.)

If you happen to arrive too early because of your planning, spend the extra time somewhere nearby looking over your questions and getting prepared. Remember, being late, even with an excuse, is usually not acceptable nor, more importantly, considerate.

Keep in mind that employers look at both, the way an application is filled out as well as the information on it. Think of the application as your first job assignment; an example of how you would perform on the job, the first true reflection of your abilities.

Read the directions closely before writing anything. (I.E. Is it asking for your most recent job first?) You may find it helpful to write the information on a blank piece of paper first to ensure accuracy, and then copy it to the application. This will avoid possibly having to cross something out, thus making the application look sloppy. You will want to have all pertinent information handy. (Dates, names, numbers, etc.).

Fill in the form neatly and completely leaving nothing blank; never write "see C.V. ". Never misrepresent your education or work experience. Most companies now conduct very thorough background checks, and any misrepresentation will be uncovered -- this will spell "doom". Always be honest. Present only the facts.

You want to project an enthusiastic, professional image right from the start. Characteristics that contribute to a professional image include self-confidence, maturity, a sense of humor, warmth, and prompt concise answers to questions. This will then carry over into how well the prospective employer gets along with you.

To develop a good rapport, speak clearly, listen closely and show interest. When the employer asks something that requires an answer, it is a good idea to think for just a moment and then comment. Body language is important, too.

Always sit up straight, lean forward slightly and maintain constant eye contact. You never want to smoke, even if the interviewer does.

Talk to an interviewer like you would talk with a business associate. You will find that some prospective employers may ask very broad questions such as "tell me about yourself" just to hear what you will say. Instead of talking about your childhood, family, or personal ambitions, (you want to try and avoid personal information as much as possible) mention specific accomplishments that show your abilities and determination to succeed in this job.

Your answers should communicate to this prospective employer why you would be an asset to their company, not personal reasons why you need the job.

Many times however, your questions may have already been answered during the interview - that is OK! You don't need to ask them again unless you want to confirm something. Just mention to the interviewer that they have been very thorough and that many of your questions have been answered. By having a list of questions ready to go - it shows you were prepared and interested in the job.

It is also a good idea to have a notepad and pen so that you can take notes when your questions are answered.

As a reminder, common courtesy says to always ask permission before taking notes.

To avoid getting into trouble after coming so far - an effective response would be something along the following: "I'm very interested in the position and I'd like to earn as much money as I am qualified to earn. How much income would you feel is fair for someone with my qualifications?" Now - This puts the decision back into the companies hands... at which point you can start to negotiate.

If you come right out and state a number you may appear to be "money hungry" or if the amount is slightly more than they thought they wanted to pay they may say anything and just not offer you the job!. But some expereinced candidates have actually been able to get more than the company was willing to pay initially by using this approach!

If they really insist and want an answer - quote what you are or were making most recently and let them know that this is the "ballpark" you would like to be in. Make it clear , that there are lots of other considerations and money is not the sole deciding factor in you accepting the job!!!

If the employer eventually makes a fair offer (and hopefully they will) and you really want the position, you should accept it immediately. If you are undecided, don't be afraid to ask for a day to think it over. However, It should never take more than 24 hours to make a decision even if you're undecided at the time of offer. The longer you wait the less interested the company becomes and they may offer the job to someone else.

Likewise, you should never refuse an offer of employment until after you've had time to think and discuss it with a significant other or a recruiter if appropriate. However, as a common courtesy, be sure to get back to them when you said you would.

At the end of the interview, if the interviewer does not specifically state that they are interested in you (and most will not), you need to "help them" come to the decision to make you the offer.
One good way to do this is to tell the interviewer:
That based on the interview you definitely feel that you are both qualified and interested in this opportunity, and that you want to proceed.
At this point, you can try to obtain feedback regarding their interest level. A tip here to help obtain this information may be to ask something along the following:
"Do you have any additional questions or issues that need to be clarified that may prevent you from making me the offer?"
Although you may feel that this question is somewhat bold, in fact it is not. Many prospective employers are waiting for you to ask it (particularly, if this is for a sales position). Remember, that while you are on an interview, you are really a salesperson selling your skills. You would probably not think about making a major purchasing decision without knowing what the cost of the product is. Equally as important, you should not leave an interview without knowing how you did.