Job Search Support: Day of the Interview By Alan Bernstein, HR Office Savers

Preferred positions are highly sought after, with multiple job seekers for one position. Here are some things you can do on the day of the interview to set yourself apart from others.

Arrive 5–15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Less than 5 minutes is cutting it too close, and more than 15 minutes is uncomfortable for the interviewer.

If you are running late, call your contact and let them know. If you are running early, sit in your car until it is about 10 minutes before the interview.

 Map out the route the night before and plan to leave home earlier than normal to allow for unexpected delays. Accidents and delays happen, but there is no good excuse for being late.

 Pro-tip: Leave enough time to find a restroom to freshen up prior to the interview.

How you speak with the person sitting at the front desk is as important as how you speak with the hiring manager.

Greet every person with a warm smile and a firm handshake. If you are introduced, look them in the eye, repeat their name and say your full name. “Hello Bryan. Pleased to meet you. My name is Alan Bernstein”.

 Assume you are being evaluated from the moment you arrive to the moment you drive away. It is not uncommon for everyone you meet to have input.

 Pro-tip: Ask for business cards from everyone you meet.

Open your notebook to a blank sheet of paper and write the interviewer’s name and the date. Take notes if it is appropriate to do so.

Bring extra copies of your resume and have them handy. Hand the interviewer your resume, even if they already have it.

Every interview includes standard questions about your employment history, strengths and weaknesses, and why you are interested in the job. Be ready to answer honestly and completely.

 Pro-tip: If you are offered water, say yes and sip during the interview. You will be talking a lot, so it is good to have something to sip on and avoid a coughing fit.

In Conclusion, If you miss any of these points, move on. Don’t dwell on it. You do not have to be perfect, just professional.

Alan is the owner of HR Office Savers, Inc., an independent human resource consulting firm that supports small local businesses and individuals with their human resource needs, including staffing, compliance, and job search. Prior to launching his business, Alan held a series of Human Resource positions of increased responsibility at Harris Corporation, Honeywell International, GTSI Corp, and Verizon Wireless.  Alan holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of Buffalo, is Six Sigma Green Belt Certified, and is a Senior Certified Professional with the Society of Human Resource Management.HR Office Savers offers a full range of human resource support options, from employee relations to termination, including performance improvement plans and progressive discipline policies. Contact us today at www.HROfficeSavers.com.Promoting positive and sustained employment for both workers and employers!