The interview day has finally arrived! Most of the prep is done and you’re ready for anything. Have you gone through your Interview Checklist yet? Here is the ultimate list of do’s and don’ts on the day.
DO:
- Arrive on time, ideally 10 minutes early. Always leave plenty of time. Late arrival for a job interview is never excusable.
- Read any marketing literature in reception, there may be some useful information in it and it shows genuine interest in the company.
- Shake hands with the interviewer; confidently and firmly while maintaining good eye contact.
- Wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright in your chair. Look alert and interested always.
- Be a good listener as well as a good talker and remember to smile.
- Look the prospective employer in the eye. Sit straight with open body language – don’t have your arms crossed.
- Ensure that your strengths are transmitted to the interviewer in a factual, sincere manner. Make them realise the need for you in their organisation.
- Be prepared to answer technical questions. Hopefully, you will know the answers but if not, don’t guess. If you are unsure, be honest and instead say: “That is beyond my experience, but this is where I would go to find the answer” or “I haven’t encountered this situation before, however, what I would do is…”
- Include all the interviewers present, even if one of them is more of an observer. Their opinion on you will be sought after the interview.
- Conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the specific job you are discussing, even when applying for several roles. It is better to be in the position where you can choose from several options rather than only one.
DON’T:
- Don’t answer questions with a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Offer an explanation whenever possible, giving succinct and practical examples.
- Don’t lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly and as directly as possible.
- Don’t make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers, companies, colleagues, industry or culture.
- Don’t inquire about salary, holidays or bonuses at the initial interview unless you are positive the employer is interested in hiring you and raises the issue first. However, you should know your market value and be prepared to specify your required salary or range.
Do you have any other pointers that you would give to IT interviewing hopefuls? Feel free to leave a comment! If you feel you’re ready to interview, apply for the Evros Academy today!