Interview Do’s and Don'ts

DO's
	Do arrive on time or a few minutes early.
	Dress neatly and formally.
	Be polite (but not overly or insincerely so) to everyone in the office.
	Do act confident, but not overconfident.
	Give the appearance of energy as you walk. Smile!
	Do greet the interviewer by last name if you are sure of the pronunciation. If not, ask the employer to repeat it.
	Do shake hands firmly and stand until offered a chair. Sit upright and look interested.
	Do look a prospective employer in the eye while speaking.
	If presented with an application, do fill it out neatly and completely.
	Do listen carefully; it will help you see how you fit in, and how best to answer.
	Do take a pause and think before you answer questions. Be articulate.
	Do make sure that your good points come across to the interviewer in a factual, sincere manner. Stress your achievements.
	Do always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing.
	Do answer truthfully.
	Do thank the employer for interviewing you.

DON'TS
	Don’t be late or overdressed.
	For women: wear only light perfume, make up, and jewelry.
	Don't forget to bring a copy of your resume!
	Don't smoke or chew gum, even if the interviewer does and offers you either.
	Don’t fidget (looking at your watch, run hands through your hair).
	Don't answer with a simple "yes" or "no." Don’t over-answer questions or talk too much either. Explain suitably and briefly.
	Don't lie. Answer questions truthfully, frankly, and briefly.
	Don't make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers and co-workers.
	Don’t mention other companies that turned you down.
	Don't inquire about salary, vacations, etc. during the first interview unless you are sure the employer is interested in hiring you.
	Don’t use the interviewer's first name unless asked.
	Don’t take anyone with you to the interview.
	Don’t apologize for lack of experience or training; stress your strong points instead.
	Don’t ask to use the company telephone.
	Don’t put anything on the interviewer's desk.
	Don’t mention influential friends or acquaintances in the organization.
	Don’t try to be very funny.
	Don’t make elaborate promises.
	Don’t plead for a job.
	Don’t hang around after the interview.