Description :
Landing a job is a challenge in many professions. With competition so high these days in many fields, it is important to make the best impression on any interview that you land. Much of what an employer takes out of an interview is how you behave in addition to what you say.
Breaking etiquette rules will make your chances of landing that job far less likely than if you follow a few basic pointers. From the moment you respond to a request for interview, you are under scrutiny. Here are the top 3 interview etiquette mistakes to avoid:
Being late to an interview
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the interview location, even if you have to wait around before entering. Lateness leaves a very bad impression on your potential employer. It is one that is almost impossible to overcome even if you are otherwise the perfect candidate for the job. When planning on your time to leave, check weather and traffic reports. Have alternative routes in mind if your city is prone to accidents and lots of traffic.
Being rude at any time
Act polite at all times. From the moment you pick up the phone to answer a potential employer, your actions and words are on the stage and will be what your future boss will use to decide whether or not you can fit in at their company. Rude behavior of any sort will count major points against you gaining the job. When you answer the phone saying, "yo talk to me", or anything like it, it reflects very poorly on you. A simple "hello" is fine.
When you arrive for the interview, be polite to anyone you meet. Many places often ask the receptionist how a potential candidate acted towards them and others. Treating anyone with less than polite professionalism is not good. "Please" and "thank you" go a long way with anyone you meet.
The person interviewing you may introduce you to other people in the company. These introductions are not made casually. The interviewer wants to see how well you interact with people. Polite professionalism is always appropriate. If you have an interview over a meal, treat the servers and other restaurant employees with good manners. Remember that you are always on stage with an interview.
Failing to send a thank you note
Many people consider sending a hand-written thank you note an old-fashion gesture. However, it will help you look good to your potential employer. You want to make note of the interviewer's name. Also, if they have anyone else step into the interview, make note of that name as well.
When you get home after the interview, sit down and write personal thank you notes to each person. Sending a generic note or an email is does not convey a personal touch. Sending a note addressed to the group is not individual enough to make a positive or lasting impression. You need to make you and your qualifications stand out to those making the decisions.
These simple etiquette points can make or break your chances of landing the job. Acting like a mature professional, even if the job is not for professionals, will make the right impression.
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*by andreascy*
