7 Simple Steps to a ‘Smashing’ Job Interview

Jimmy Sweeney, President of CareerJimmy

You’ve probably heard the sage advice about what not to do in order to ace an interview that could lead to the job you want. Most people are well intended. They hope for the best for you and for themselves. However, what most of us need and want are solid tips or steps for what to do to have a winning interview.

That’s the point of this article––to offer you seven steps to take that will result in a smashing and successful job interview. After you’ve read them over, you may want to print out the list or put it into your mobile phone so you can refer to it often—even right before you enter the interview room.

7 Simple Steps to Job Interview Success

1. Arrive a few minutes early. You may have to wait on the employer, but better that than you making him or her wait. And of course you should allow for unexpected traffic snarls, parking, a coffee break, perhaps, and a restroom stop.

2. Empty your pockets before you leave home. What could be more annoying than the jingle of coins or trinkets while you’re speaking or listening to the interviewer? Leave noisy items behind. That goes for dangling earrings and clanking bracelets that may distract, as well.

3. Avoid bringing cigarettes, chewing gum, or hard candy. Be ready to focus your attention on the interviewer and his or her questions. If your mouth feels dry, sip plain water. Ask for it if you need it.

4. Remain open to what happens. Enter the interview room with a ‘clean slate.’ In other words, make the best of whatever comes your way. You may be in for a pleasant surprise. You’ll be meeting and speaking with someone who may be the key to your next job.

5. Speak up. Prepare yourself to talk about the job you hope to get and your qualifications, as well as your previous work experience. Also, it’s fine to ask a few questions of your own. You have a right to find out if the company would be a good fit for you. However, it’s best to not talk about salary or benefits until you have been offered the job.

6. Believe the best. As long as you do your utmost, it won’t matter so much if you don’t get hired. At some point you will land the position that’s ideal for you. Meanwhile, you’ll be practicing your communication skills and presenting your true self. Step up to the opportunity and give it your all.

7. Follow up with a thank you note. And finally, be sure to acknowledge the interviewer for his or her time, attention, and help. Of course you’ll say ‘thank you’ in person before you leave the interview room, but add to that a personal hand-written note and mail it the very next day.

© Written By Jimmy Sweeney
President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,
Job Interview “Secret”

Jimmy Sweeney is president of CareerJimmy and creator of the brand new, “Job Interview Secret Document.” Jimmy is the author of “Tough Times Job Tips” and writes a monthly article titled, “Job Search Secrets.”

On your very next job interview, the moment you walk in the door, simply hand your customized “Secret Career Document” to the person conducting the interview and let the magic begin…