Do’s and Don’ts: The Ten Commandments of Interviewing

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Michael McKay graduated Marymount Manhattan College with a degree in Communication Arts. He is currently the Director of Marketing at Jozii.

Career advice: Get involved in activities you are passionate about. Most career opportunities come from people you meet.

I. Thou shalt do research on the company

Knowing about the company not only makes for a better interview, but also shows potential employers that you are interested in the position.

II. Thou shalt dress correctly

How you dress is often the first impression an interviewer will have of you. Even when interviewing for jobs that allow more casual dress for employees, you should still dress up for the interview.

Tip: It’s always better to overdress rather than underdress.

III.Thou shalt give a firm handshake

A firm handshake shows confidence and is an important non-verbal part of the interview.

Tip: make sure to look the person in the eye when shaking their hand.

IV. Thou shalt ask questions

Asking questions shows that you have done research on the company and allows you to address any concerns you have about the position. Remember that the hiring process is a two way street.

V. Thou shalt send a thank you note

Sending a thank you note shows the employer that you’re serious about the position and went the extra mile.

VI. Thou shalt not be late

Being late is unprofessional and interviewers may think this practice will continue if they hire you. Make sure to plan ahead and leave some extra time in case your commute takes longer than expected.

VII. Thou shalt not give one word answers

“Yes” or “no” answers do not give the interviewer much information to work with.

Tip: Elaborate by providing reasons or examples.

VIII. Thou shalt not check your cell phone

Looking at your phone during an interview is rude and distracting. The interview is your chance to sell yourself to a potential employer, not see what your friends are doing later.

IX. Thou shalt not speak badly of previous employers

Employers don’t want to hire people with negative attitudes. Plus, you never know if they may know your former boss.

X. Thou shalt not lie

In todays day and age it’s easy to to research a candidate and catch them in a lie. Be honest and focus on your strengths.

Come meet the Jozii team at the Leslie Elab on March 9th from 10:30am to 5:30pm and get free professional headshots to use on your online job profiles! No RSVP needed, so stop by whenever you’re free between classes.