INTERVIEW DO'S AND DONT'S

On the day of the interview, you want to shine. Here are some tips to help make that happen:

Map it. Make sure you have directions to the office. If it seems confusing, consider a trial run the day before.

Arrive early. There is absolutely no excuse for lateness in an interview. When you arrive a few minutes early you will be able to check out the facility and glean some last-minute information about the atmosphere and staff. If you are sitting alone, be sure to have a copy of the newspaper or an industry journal to read while you are waiting.

Be hungry for the job, not for your next meal. Eat something light before you arrive and bring some extra breath mints. Never chew gum or candy during an interview.

Dress appropriately. Appearance does matter in an interview situation. Err on the side of formality—wear a suit, minimal jewelry, and a neat, professional hairstyle.

Treat support staff politely and professionally. Interviewers often ask their assistants how candidates presented themselves on the phone and in waiting areas. Consider every contact with the company as part of the interview process. In fact, getting an administrative person on your side may be the best thing you ever do, as they are the gatekeepers who answer the phone, do the scheduling, and open the mail!

Bring supporting materials. Remember, this is a sales pitch and you want to be prepared with support materials for the product, You. Bring extra copies of your resumé, business card, and any other information (like articles you have published). You may not have the opportunity to share these, but you will be prepared.

Have references ready. You may be asked to fill out a job application, including a list of references. So be sure to have contact details for your references with you.

Shine. Regardless of what you have done before, you must have a passion for something—anything. Whatever it is they're talking about—jobs, family, or an event in the news—employers want to see excitement. Show it in your eyes and in your voice.

More Interview Do's and Don'ts

• Do remain professional at all times.
• Do establish commonality—remember to use the research you gained and find a commonality with your interviewer.
• Don't respond in basic "yes" or "no" answers—always elaborate.
• Don't be shy about asking the interviewer to repeat the question or clarify what they are asking if you are unsure of something.
• Don't rush into an answer you are unsure of. If you need a moment to compose your thoughts, it is okay to have a silent pause. This may be seen as a sign of thoughtfulness.
• Do speak specifically about your role in any previous successes. Let the interviewer know what you did, said, and thought.
• Don't argue with your interviewer.  If you disagree with something the interviewer says, acknowledge their point by saying, "I understand your perspective," and move on to another subject.