Interview etiquette could prove to be the difference

By David Whisler
Online Forty-Niner
Contributing Writer

Emily Post may be dead, but etiquette is alive and well and has no greater use than during a job interview.

As the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. At a job interview you have a short but very distinct opportunity to make that first impression on a potential employer.

There have literally been hundreds of books written on interviewing techniques, as well as cassettes and videos, television specials and weekend seminars.

What they all boil down to are a few simple rules. Some may seem like common sense, but are things that are easily overlooked.

No. 10, the art of networking: When you go on an interview, no matter the outcome, do not burn bridges. If you feel that the position is not right for you, or even if you just do not receive a job offer, make sure to thank the interviewer and keep their contact information. You will never know when or where a future opportunity might arise.

No. 9, be on time: Never arrive late to an interview. It is acceptable to be 10 to 15 minutes early, but no earlier. The last thing that you want to do is make your interviewer feel rushed. While waiting in the lobby, refrain from talking on your cell phone or chatting needlessly with the receptionist.

No. 8, dress the part: Even if you are interviewing for a company that you know has a casual dress code, you should dress in business attire for the interview. "The most conservative approach is always the best," according to Christina Sanchez. Sanchez, a mentor and CSULB alumnus, has worked at UPS for the last 15 years. Good grooming and hygiene is a must. Clean, trimmed nails, and neat hair is recommended, while long hair should be pulled back and cologne or perfume should be used sparingly.

No. 7, present a professional presence: While being interviewed you should exude confidence. Sit up straight and make eye contact with your interviewer. Speak in a clear and even tone, and at a moderate volume. Avoid pitfalls such as repeating a question to buy time, because experienced interviewers can sense when someone is stalling. Be prepared to answer a variety of questions, but above all, try to relax and be yourself.

No. 6, never look at your watch: When you schedule an interview, allow plenty of time. If you are pressed for time on a given day then you should re-schedule the interview. Everyone is busy, your interviewer's time is just as important as yours. Do not risk insulting them by insinuating that you have somewhere else to be.

No. 5, be honest: Do not inflate your abilities or virtues during the interview. More importantly, do not consider or accept a job you feel is beyond your abilities.

Remember that you are interviewing the company as well. If their corporate policies or general demeanor do not match with yours then it is probably a sign that this would not be a good fit.

Do not be afraid to decline a job offer.

No. 4, the handshake: A handshake should be "firm, crisp and friendly," Sanchez said. Let the interviewer offer their hand first. Treat men and women equally in terms of handshakes.

No. 3, the thank you note: Send a thank you note or letter after the interview. If the interviewer gives you a business card with an email address it is appropriate to send a thank you e-mail. Otherwise you can send a card or letter via mail to the company address.

No. 2, practice: It is always a good idea to practice your interview skills before going in. The Career Development Center offers interview exercises, they can be videotaped for critique. It is a good idea, according to Program Coordinator Peggy Murphy Hayden to wait until you have scheduled an interview before you practice.

No. 1, prepare: "Prepare, prepare, prepare," Hayden said. You would not consider going into a test without studying, you should look at an interview in the same way. Take the time to go onto to the company Web site and learn as much as you can. Research of the industry is helpful.