Some More No-Nos During An Interview

by Marjorie Dorfman | More from this Blogger

17 Sep 2006 08:31 AM

A successful interview involves many factors. Two important ones are being honest about your past and researching the company beforehand so that you can navigate the questions beforehand. The more you know, the better equipped you will be. Avoid some of the following and if Mr. Murphy doesn't have it out for you, you will do well:

1. Don't turn down a glass of water or cup of coffee if offered. Take it even if you don't want it, haven't been thirsty in a very log time and/ or break out in hives from either or both). To accept puts you automatically on a more personal level with your interviewer. The cup also serves other purposes; all clandestine and self-serving. It offers a cover while you look over it to helps to scope out the office for possible clues on talking points, and it will also give you something to do with your hands during those quiet and most uncomfortable moments.

2. Don't overdo your research and ask inappropriate questions that may embarrass your interviewer. Questions like, "Why are there so many openings in this company?" and "Are you guys still losing money?" don't fare well. They can be better handled with other questions, like, "How can I contribute to the company's growth?"

3. Do not rush through an interview even if you suspect that your house is on fire. You do not have to tell your whole life story in ten minutes and most interviewers allow an ample amount of time (usually about an hour) to really effectively interview a prospective employee. Be creative and attach important pieces of personal information to whatever answers you give to the employer's questions. Improvise.

4. Leave a memory by following up on something said during the interview. Maybe about a photo on the desk; do something that will make you stand out from other applicants, but do not consider brandishing a sharp knife in front of the interviewer claiming, "I need this job."

In short, remember that he who hesitates in lost, but don't forget to look before you leap.

Good luck! You will need it.

"The Art of The Interview"

Learn more about Marjorie Dorfman

Marjorie Dorfman is a freelance writer and former teacher originally from Brooklyn, New York.

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