Welcome to Interviewing Do & Taboos.  I'm your host, Paul Kavicky and with me today are Roberta Terrell and Jonathan Ross who work with DTN Productions International – Hallmark of Etiquette.

I'm looking forward to all of your suggestions for the all-important interview moments!  Let's get started!

You should have a list prepared to check off as you prepare for the interview – the first "do" is reconfirming your appointment – it shows your organization.

Look the pabe dressed better than average and well-groomed head to toe – you'll communicate greater confidence because of how you feel – you know you look great and you're ready for the interview!

I'm sure basic etiquette is expected while waiting in the lobby area, and as you're escorted into the interview, and then it's time to really be "on" – so Roberta, what's next?

If you're overly nervous you may talk too quickly and not be focused on listening.  Think of the interview more as a conversation.  The more that you're able to relax and synchronize your behavior with theirs, the synergy will be apparent! 

If you think of the interview as an interrogation, it will feel awkward and forced rather than comfortable. 

And be ready, as I would imagine the questions are about to fly! 

Yes, you'll want to have your impressive 30-second self-introduction ready – it can be a version of what you've already practiced at the job and career fairs. 

An effective self-introduction highlights the points you need to quickly make about you and your unique attributes. 

What are some typical interview questions….

Well, the questions run the gamut so be prepared: what are your strengths, why should we hire you, what is your proudest achievement, what attracted you to us, describe your work style…

….what is the most recent book you've read, how do you stay organized, what do you like to do in your spare time, what would you do tomorrow if you won the lottery, how do you handle people who annoy you, how do you deal with conflict…..

And of course there are different types of questions based upon what type of interview you're having – traditional or behavioral.

And I would hope the interviewee has questions for the employer as well….

Yes, research your prospective employer – they will be impressed when you ask them relevant questions. It also showcases your self-confidence when you speak-up!

So Jonathan, what about the interview meal…..does it happen often?

You bet, the over the meal interview is a frequent occurrence by the 3^rd or 4^th interview – so be ready at any point and don't be surprised when that 11:30 appointment turns into an interview lunch!  Mind your table manners!

Any other dos and taboos?

Work on any poor speech habits – up-talk is annoying, poor grammar will raise eyebrows, sloppy or lazy speech habits will not go unnoticed in addition to passive, weak language that will work against you.

Any special dos and don'ts at the end of the interview?

Develop a great close to wrap-up the interview – leave on words to remember you by!

And what kind of follow-up do interviewers expect?

Thank you notes are necessary and a follow-up letter is even more comprehensive highlighting points of the interview and your strengths. 

Employers still say that the hand-written letter stands out favorably – yes, even in our increasingly "green" society so purchase recycled paper note cards.

I read a recent study that said on a scale of 1-5 with 5 as highest, employers place communication skills at a 4.7 as a point of

qualifying

candidates in interviews.  So these tips help!  Thanks Roberta and Jonathan!