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Career Tip: Interviewing Chemistry

Love at 1st Sight!

There are tons of books, articles, and videos out there that help “coach” you through the interview process.  I have found that the scariest part of the interview is the “unknown” element.  While your first interview may seem foreign, many of you have been in a similar situation tons of times before…even if you have never been on a “real interview.”  Treating your interview like your first date with a new love interest is a great way to think about the process…

1.  LOOK YOUR BEST – You would never go on a first date with “Mr./Ms. Right” without dressing to impress!  When I lived in the residence halls, I remember the drill…if a guy really wanted to impress a girl, there were certain steps:  1. take a shower, 2. buy a new shirt, 3. get a haircut, 4. shine your shoes and 5. drown your desperation with cologne.  The same goes for your interview.  Looking the part for the job is important.  Ladies, a well-fitted suit with a conservative cut top is best.  Your accessories should be minimal (leave the big gold purse at home!!!).  Men -  a suit in a traditional color (black, brown, or blue), a white shirt, and conservative tie (it’s time to throw the Mickey Mouse tie away!) is your best bet.  The only difference…leave off the cologne/perfume!  Many times interview space may be small or cramped…and not everyone thinks that your new J.Lo perfume smells like “Cherry Pie.”   

2.  MIND YOUR MANNERS – Ladies – think back to when you and your “sweetie” went on your first date.  I bet he brought you flowers, opened your car door, pulled out your chair, and paid for everything.  Fast forward 6-8 months…what happened to your Romeo?  On a job interview, you should be on your best behavior.  Being polite, saying please & thank you, yes sir/ma’am, and chewing with your mouth closed are expected…and don’t forget to SMILE!  Having a pleasant look on your face makes you look more approachable and confident.  As for name calling, always use Mr./Ms./Dr. unless invited to do otherwise.  Example:  “Hello Mr. Gates.” “No…please call me Bill.”  “Ok, Bill, thank you for this opportunity.” 

3.  DISCUSS YOUR SIMULARITIES – Who knew that you could find someone who loved dipping french fries in honey mustard & hot sauce while watching Knight Rider reruns as much as you do?!?!  IT MUST BE LOVE!  Connecting with the interviewer(s) is so important.  To establish good rapport, you must master the art of small talk.  A few safe topics:  the weather, the building/room, similar tastes in coffee or office furniture…what ever gets them chatting.  A little homework will help out too.  Ask the receptionist where the interviewer went to college, or be observant of the decorations in their office.  “Wow…is that a picture of a schnauzer?  My first dog was a schnauzer!”  Many interviewers see this less as nervous chatter, and more as a chance to get a read on your personality. 

4.  DON’T MOVE TOO FAST – At the end of that magic night, the most you should expect is a “thanks” and a “good night”…anything else and you may sense the other person getting a little freaked out!  Slow down, Trigger!  It’s only your 1^st date!!  Same goes for a job interview!  Don’t assume that you have the job even before interviewing.  There is a thin line between confident and cocky.  KNOW the difference.  Also, you would never “head for home base” and ask about salary, vacation time, or how big your office will be.  Take it slow.  Let them bring it up.

5.  LEAVE THEM WANTING MORE! – At the end of a really great first date, remember the feeling of missing the person as soon as they get out of the car?  That is what you are shooting for.  In your interview be smart, be interested, be fun, be charming, be cleaver…just don’t over stay your welcome.  When you feel like you have the interviewer in the palm of your hands, SHUT UP and don’t over talk your answers.  Jerry Seinfeld, Bob Barker, and Kent Wyatt had it right…leave when you are on the top of your game.  This is that “certain something” about you that will get you that second interview!

Who knew that all those first dates I went on in college would come in handy for something?  :)  Just like first dates, all interviews don’t end up with you two riding off into the sunset.  You may have to go through a million before you find THE ONE.   If you fall off the horse, get back up, brush yourself off, and try it again.  For more information on interviewing, feel free to stop by the Career Center. 

 

Source: Jason Umfress, 2006