When going to pick-up an application for a job be sure to still dress professionally. Just because you are going to get an application does not mean it is OK to wear your pajamas and flip-flops. You may be asked to fill out the application on site and you may even get an interview that same day. So be be sure to dress accordingly.
During the interview you may be asked what your hobbies are or what you like to do after work. When answering these questions be honest about what you like to do but also think about hobbies and/or interests that also pertain to the position you are interviewing for. For example: If you are interviewing for a highly technical position, you will want to point out a hobby or interest that shows you have mechanical aptitude.
When scheduling an interview ask to interview before or after business hours. Also ask to interview during lunch hours. Even if these hours are not available, asking to meet during these times will show you are a dedicated employee who does not use personal or sick days to accomplish personal matters outside of work. Plus this helps to not create suspicion with your current employer that you may be interviewing.
Bring at least three copies of your resume, as a minimum. You never know if you may have to interview with someone else that day as well.
Make sure you bring a notepad and paper. Also, make sure you take notes because it shows you are paying attention to what the interviewer is saying. Plus you can refer to your notes later as you narrow down which company you want to work for.
Make sure your cell phone is turned off! Not on vibrate, turned off! You will immediately disqualify yourself from any job interview if your cell phone starts ringing during the interview.
If you are a cologne or perfume wearer, try not to wear any for the interview or keep it to a minimum. You never know what type of allergies the interviewer may have and you certainly do not want to overpower them with cologne or perfume. Plus if you over do it, psychologically it gives the impression you are hiding something.
Dress for success! I am sure you have heard this cliché before but when interviewing you better dress for the part and look professional. If you are interviewing for an office position, you better have a suit on. If you do not own a suit or cannot afford to buy one, borrow one or go to the thrift store!
Make sure your shoes are clean. They don’t have to be expensive but people get all dressed up in a nice business suit and than ruin it by wearing raggedy, even, muddy shoes. Also, make sure your shoes match your outfit! Brown shoes and a black suit do not go together.
Be yourself! Everyone tells you this and it could not be truer. A good interviewer will know if you are who you say you are by their line of questioning. If you plan on lying in an interview about yourself, than you better be ready to interview with a lot of places.
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