I have a series of posts emerging from my experience in staffing/human resources, based on what people have done and ask me advice for. [Follow me for the latest!]
Don't:
Act fake or perfect. Be authentic - share about the humor of you tripping over your own two feet on the way to the interview, or even about how you spilled ink all over your shirt, right before the interview. Everyone involved the interview is human and not perfect. Most #recruiters are looking for real people they can relate to and talk with for the organization.
On that note, don't be too serious (but maintain professionalism). People are going to hire people they want to be around.
Want the job right away, but be there to find out if it's a good fit. Be discerning and figure out if these are the people you'd like to work with and for. Be honest that you have some questions about the culture of the office, because you want to make sure you'll be happy working there. You'll do a better job that way, anyway.
Forget your copy of your resume. Have at least two with you and offer it immediately.
Come without a notebook, pen and list of questions you want to make sure are answered. Let them know you have prepared questions. And come with a question or two that show you did your research about the company. "I read in an article that Mr. Smith, the CEO has mentioned wanting to expand the company - I'd love to learn more about the vision for the future... can you tell me about that?"
I promise, your recruiter will be impressed.Act aloof. Let them know you want the job, but you're in the interview to make sure it's a mutual fit. You're not desperate, and at the same time, you know what you want. You won't settle for something that isn't a good fit.
Forget your Integrity. Let them know that integrity is important to you and that you're not willing to lie to get a new client, etc. Being honest will impress the right people. If they expect you to lie or bend the truth to accomplish your work, it's only going to drain you. Trust me, I've been there and quit fast.
Tell them you don't need the job, want it, or that you won't gain anything from the job. When they ask, tell them about the experiences you look forward to. I know someone that lost a chance at a job because they said they won't gain anything from working there when they were asked. In reality, while the experience won't be new, he would've gained the chance to help people which is his passion, and to meet new people which he enjoys. If he said that, he probably would've had a chance!
Lie. Be honest. If there was a job that fell apart, let them know why and what you learned. Let them know it was a mutual agreed upon leaving (if it was), and why it was the best outcome for everyone involved. You don't need to pretend you quit, when you got fired, but you can talk about it in a positive light and be grateful for new opportunities and doors closing that didn't serve you or them in the first place.
Some extras:
-Don't be late, or too early - if you are early, wait in your car (you aren't desperate and you don't have time to waste in an office for more than 20 mins).
-Don't show up disheveled. Dress for the job you want, clean cut and professional.
-Don't wear extra cologne or perfume. Just one spray is perfect.
-Don't act too nervous or stressed - again, it's a mutual discovery if this is the right job for you - relax! You WILL get hired if it's meant to be! If you need to practice, ask a friend or family member.
When you get offered your dream job, jump for joy! But save it for when you get home. :)
Have any questions or ideas? Leave a comment below!