20 Things not to do during an interview

If you are smartly presented, adhere to basic social etiquette and sensibly answer the interviewer’s questions then you are well on your way to a new job. However there are some blunders to avoid:

1. Do not arrive late, you must allow enough time from when you leave your house to permit for unforeseen circumstances such as rail problems or traffic jams.

2. Do not fidget with items on the desk, or play with your hair and clothes.

3. Do not mumble, talk too fast, too softly or non-stop. Unless you speak clearly all of your sound comments will be lost on the interviewer and you will not impress.

4. Do not use slang words, crack silly jokes, or chew gum.

5. Do not lean on the interviewer’s desk or frequently glance at your watch.

6. Do not hide any aspect of your previous record, overstate qualifications, brag, or become angry.

7. Do not call the interviewer by his/her first name, or become involved in any negative aspect of your current employer, classes, or university.

8. Do not show ignorance about the company, allow your research to come through in conversation.

9. Do not appear half-asleep, go to bed early the night before the interview and sleep soundly knowing that you are fully prepared for the day ahead.

10. Do not bring up the topic of salary. When the time is right, salary will be discussed.

11. If it is an interview over lunch do not order the spaghetti.

12. Do not come across as being passive or indifferent, be positive and enthusiastic.

13. Do not be overbearing, or conceited.

14. Be friendly and open, but do not flirt with the interviewer.

15. Do not use negative body language, or convey inappropriate aspects of your character.

Most importantly!

16. Do not ask to see the interviewer’s resume to see if they are qualified to judge you as a candidate

17. Do not over emphasize your ability to use a photocopier

18. Do not ask the secretary if she will sit on your lap during the interview.

19. Do not upon walking into the office for the first time ask the receptionist to hold all your calls.

20. Do not explain that your long-term goal is to have the interviewers job.