Here are 7 job interview tricks that will make you look really professional in your limited amount of time.
1. Show up early
Even though we know that showing up early is a major key to interview success, many of us still don’t put aside enough time to do it. Do whatever it takes to ensure that you walk into the office where your interview will take place 5 minutes early. Not only does this show your interviewer that you’re serious about the job, but it gives you a few minutes to relax and set your mind at ease.
2. Look put together
Putting a little bit of effort into your appearance takes almost no time at all–but results in a refined, well-thought-out presentation that also leaves you feeling more confident about meeting your interviewer for the first time.
3. Put your phone on silent
There’s actually nothing more unprofessional than a phone ringing, buzzing, or beeping during an interview. While everyone knows that we are absurdly attached to our phones these days, having your phone go off in the middle of an interview is incredibly disrespectful.
4. Ask questions
Doing a bit of preliminary research on the company or position you’re interviewing for will allow you to impress your interviewer with your knowledge and interest in the company. If you have questions to ask, be sure to bring them up as you go and at the end. Your knowledge will definitely read as prepared.
5. Remember everything you need
Although not every interview requires your resume, some do. And, if you don’t bring it along, it definitely reflects poorly on you. Remember to bring anything that you might need during the course of your interview: your resume, your portfolio, your computer, etc. Forgetting such an important aspect of your work comes across very unprofessional.
6. Don’t trash talk your current or past employer
When an interviewer hears you say positive things about the place you work or your current boss, it’s incredibly easy to envision hiring you since they think that you’ll demonstrate the same sentiment towards their company. It’s also a good idea to avoid trash talk in general–refrain from doing so for the utmost professionalism.
7. Maintain a good attitude
No matter how tired, upset, or frustrated you may be in the moment, it’s important to put that aside for the interview. It shows your ability to compartmentalize your emotions–and that you can apply such skills in a workplace setting.