What you need to know to land those jobs

You’re ready for the Interview of Your Life.

But are you definitely ready?

Well, just imagine that you are. You’ve got on your power business suit. You feel comfortable and confident.

Now, imagine you don’t get hired.

OK, so the other 20 people didn’t either, or the selected interviewee had more experience.

What else could go wrong?

Did you make a good first impression? It really does count.

Were you well-prepared? Have you done your homework? Was your resume complete and updated?

There’s a whole lot more to interviewing than what meets the eyes of your prospective employers.

Here are some do’s and don’ts of being interviewed.

Do look professional and presentable. Unless you’re applying for a position at a trendy boutique, say away from loud flashy, trendy clothes. Also, keep your jewelry simple. A lot of accessories can be distracting to interviewers.

When you present yourself accordingly, you also represent yourself and who you are. Your potential employer will judge your appearance and mannerisms. The interviewer will watch your stride when you walk in and how you express yourself during the interview. Avoid using slang terms. And slouching? Remember what your mom said.

Do your homework. You should do that anyway, but in the context of job searching, you should look into the company you applied to. What does your job require? What does the company do? And by all means, refrain from asking these questions during your interview. It is your responsibility to know the intricate details of the company.

Do be a good listener at all times. Your interviewers will be speaking to you and they will expect you to understand what they are saying. Also, in your role as listener, you need to be aware of questions being asked. You will need to answer them, and your interviewers expect a straight answer.

Do have questions ready. Most employers are impressed by good, straightforward questions that reflect your interest in their company. However, do not ask how much you’ll be paid unless it is specifically brought up in discussion. Many employers want workers who want to work because of enthusiasm for the job. Pay is important; just do not mention the subject until after you’ve been hired.

Do bring extra resumes and references. There may be more than one person there interviewing you, or your resume may have been misplaced. References are important as well. Keep both fresh and updated.

Do be on time. This is possibly one of the most important aspects of interviewing. Better yet, be several minutes early. If you show up late, the employers will get the impression that you’ll always be a latecomer, and will deduct points on your hired/not hired scale.

Do be positive and show your enthusiasm, but don’t exaggerate. If your potential employers see you are excited about the possibility of working for them it makes them that much more enthusiastic about you.

Do be confident, even if you feel nervous. Confidence speaks volumes.

Do have a firm handshake. Need I say more?

Don’t chew gum while being interviewed, and don’t ramble on. Be short, to the point and specific. Also, don’t exaggerate your accomplishments. Let your resume do the talking.

Don’t bring anyone with you to the interview. If you have someone that will drive you there, have that person wait outside or come back for you. By bringing a friend or anyone else, it makes you look like you will not be able to handle the job all by yourself, although you may be well-qualified.

Don’t say anything negative about past employers or co-workers. It makes you look like a gossip.

Don’t discuss your personal life.

Don’t take notes. It makes you look just plain unprepared.

So when you’re ready for that all-important interview, follow these guidelines, relax and go!