Image courtesy of Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee/freedigitalphotos.net

Show up on time. This is basic.  Arriving late not only makes a bad first impression but shows a level of disinterest.  If you are legitimately running late phone ahead and tell someone that you will be late.

Don’t bring your mom, or even a friend.  If they are dropping you off have them wait in the car or run some errands.  People hiring want to see a level of independence.

Wear something appropriate for the job.  I know of a prominent audio producer who almost didn’t get a job at a radio station because he wore a suit.  Since we’re not in financial services, we don’t wear business suits and ties, but we don’t dress like slobs either when we’re with clients or even meeting job applicants.   Being poorly dressed gives the impression that this interview is not a very high priority in your life and that you’d like to get back to handfishin’.  As stated in another post, we are in the customer service business.  Our clients have a feeling of security when we take the time to look presentable.

Have something relevant to say.  Most interviewers will begin by asking, “Tell us a bit about yourself”.  If you a have something that may set you apart from the other applicants, now is the time to speak up.  If it relates well to the company interviewing you, then even better.  To do this go to their website and find something to talk about.  They should have video samples there you can have a look at and possibly develop a point of view about.  This shows you are interested and made the extra effort to find out about the work they do.  Companies are looking for a good fit with employees and it reflects well on you if you are looking for the same.  Don’t forget to make eye contact when you are expressing yourself.  Effective communication is high on the list of what employers are looking for, and eye contact is essential.

Don’t trash previous employers or other companies you’ve worked for in the past.  People evaluating you want to feel secure that you won’t say the same things about them in the future.  As well, many of our clients require us to sign non-disclosure agreements, which means we don’t discuss anything about them to anyone else – ever.  Discretion is the better part of valour.

Lastly, sending an email the next day saying thanks for the interview doesn’t hurt either.

We welcome anyone’s thoughts or comments on this or any other related topic.