Interviewing Etiquette

The Number One Etiquette Tip: or "How to Stand out from all the other applicants"Write a thank-you letter to the interviewer(s) immediately following the interview. Thank him/her (them) for the interview, recap what you learned from the interview, and reaffirm your interest in the job (ask for the job!) This can even be e-mailed or faxed later the same day!

• Double check the time of appointment. Arrange to be five minutes early, before the scheduled time. Do not be too early... (you shouldn't be hanging around their lobby for half an hour)
• Have extra copies of your resume with you. Have your reference list available, including names, addresses, and phone numbers. Also, be sure that your references expect phone calls or other inquiries about your job search.
• Wear clean, well-pressed clothing appropriate to the job you are seeking. Arrive well groomed from head to heels.
• Give the appearance of self-confidence and energy when you first enter the room: Smile, Be Yourself. Give a firm handshake. Be relaxed. Maintain eye contact.
• Be genuine, but not overly friendly with the interviewer.
• Before answering a question take time to pause and plan an adequate response to the question. Try not to fill silences with nervous responses.
• Keep your responses positive. Prepare positive answers to the most frequently asked interviewing questions. Prepare positive responses to cover an irregular or problematic work history. Your Search Consultants International representative can help you work through this area before you begin to interview.
• At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer(s) for his (her or his/their) consideration and time.