What Not to Do Before an Interview

 

Many people are focused on worrying about what to say in the interview and what questions to ask, and while these are extremely important, it’s also important to think about what you should do before the interview. Unlike the way my morning unfolded, you should first wake up early with enough time to relax and get yourself ready. Eat a substantial breakfast and if you drink coffee, make sure you do so before the interview and not during it. You definitely should brush your hair, make yourself presentable and please wear deodorant. Instead of focusing on finding clothes that just match, you should pick out clothes that are professional but not too stuffy. It is perfectly OK for women to wear pants, and for men it is perfectly required. Avoid wearing low-cut shirts or really high heels, as they can both be uncomfortable and potentially send the wrong message to your interviewers.

After the logistics are taken care of, the most important part should begin: relaxation.

For many people, interviewing is a nerve-wracking and absolutely terrifying experience. Many people become so anxious that they start losing their self-confidence. If there is one thing you should remember to bring to your interview, above your letter of references and resume, you should bring your self-confidence. No one can take that away from you except yourself and it is one of the first things that potential employers see. Without your self-confidence, nervousness will get the best of you and will ruin all the hard work you put into preparing for the interview.

So with self-confidence in hand, you should arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to the interview. While waiting, make sure you look purposeful, because believe it or not, people are watching you. Try to be aware of the fact that other people can see you, people who may potentially be important. While you are waiting, go over your resume or look over your cover letter and reference list. Also take this time to relax and unleash your self-confidence. The key is to be confident without being arrogant, and once this happy medium is reached, you will do great.

What’s that? Did they just call your name? Stand up, take a deep breath, and rock that interview.

What Not to Do Before an Interview - Hire Education - WSJ