Keep Calm and Interview On

Don’t bring up compensation in the first interview.

I know, I know, you’ve got bills to pay; but trust me when I tell you that it's in your best interest to keep your sticky little fingers in your pockets during the first interview. Even if money is the deciding factor for you, it's a turnoff for most employers if that’s the impression you give off during your first conversation.

Pro tip: There is a time and place for the money conversation, but make sure you take the employer’s lead.

Do a dry run.

On the day of an interview, the last thing you want to be is frazzled because things aren't running smoothly. Even if you’re terribly good with directions and know where you're going, I always encourage people to do a dry run of their route the day or two before an interview. That way, you know exactly where you’re going,where you’ll park, and how long it’ll take you to get there.

It’s also important to try on the outfit you plan on wearing the day or two before. Nothing ruins the morning of an interview quite like your go-to professional outfit not fitting.

Pro tip: If you’re interview is at 8am,don’t do the dry run at 2pm, or vice versa; the traffic won’t be the same, and it could be a significantly shorter (or longer!) drive, depending on the time of day.

Do some stalking.

Since actual stalking is highly frowned upon (read: illegal), I encourage you to look up your interviewer on LinkedIn. Where did they go to school? Where are they from?What were their past jobs? I wouldn’t venture into Facebook stalking and bring up their family vacation that they took to Nags Head in 2008, but if you can find similarities or things you may have in common in order to help build your rapport during the interview, go for it.

Pro Tip: It’s always positive when I get a LinkedIn request from a candidate before or soon after I interview them. It tells me that they’re interested and doing their research.

Lay off the cologne (or perfume.)

This seems silly,but you never know where the interview is going to take place. If you’re a little heavy handed with the Axe body spray and end up in a small, closed room,you’re interviewer may want to pass out, which is never a good thing. Wearing Fragrances isn’t a no-go, but the “less is more” mindset is best.

Pro tip: It’s also important not to smoke on the way to an interview - gum and body spray can only do so much.

Phone it in.

It’s not uncommon for employers to hold first interviews over the phone. While that saves everyone a little time it doesn’t always make it easier for the interviewee because you can’t read body language or see a smile over the phone. If you find yourself with a phone interview, make sure you turn on the charm and pay close attention to your tone of voice. While you may not be able to see a smile over the phone, you can absolutely hear it.

Pro tip: Standing up can help amp up your energy levels during a phone interview.

The thing is, interviews can be tough, nerve wracking and daunting; but always keep in mind: if you’ve been asked for an interview, the company is obviously interested in you!

Keep calm and interview on, my friends.