Interviews Inside Out, Cont.

3. Do dress accordingly.  While it is true that the rules of dress in the workplace have changed in recent years, in most cases you will still be expected to wear a suit and tie (if you are male) to an interview.  I once heard it said that you should dress in the workplace according to where you want to be in the hierarchy, not where you currently are.  This is even more important in a job interview.

4. Do arrive 15 minutes early.  Not arriving early is considered being late.  

5. Do give yourself plenty of time to make the journey and park the car, or if travelling by public transport allow for delays or cancellations.

6. Do stay calm, explain and apologise if you are late.  The interviewer would rather hear an apology than nothing at all.

7. Do allow for double the time you are told the interview will take.  It is not uncommon for interviews to start late and run overtime.  While it’s not reasonable for candidates to be late or ramble overtime in an interview, the same rules do not apply for the interviewer. You should therefore ensure your parking meter is taken care of, and do not schedule appointments directly following the interview.

8.  Do switch off your mobile. Or better still, leave it behind.

9. Do shake hands confidently. Handshakes have a far deeper significance than most of us would credit.  Never underestimate the power of first impressions.