I have been on a decent amount of interviews. I have applied for even more jobs. I have done great things during interviews that led to internships, jobs, and opportunities beyond what I thought I was capable of. I have also made some mistakes. Terrible mistakes. Stupid, simple mistakes that are easy to fix.
By the way, I’m still looking for a job that doesn’t require me asking to take your order. Regardless of that small, minuscule piece of information, trust me on these tips I have for you. If I hadn’t made these mistakes, maybe I wouldn’t be contemplating between being a movie theater attendant (pros: popcorn; cons: sticky floors) and applying at the company my mother works for (pros: my mother works there; cons: my mother works there).
1. Leave A Half Hour Earlier Than You Think You Should
Trust. Me. I don’t care if that means you will arrive 45 minutes before the interview, at lease you are there. Being earlier has been embedded into my DNA since varsity volleyball. My coach always said, “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.” That has always stuck with me, which is why I was always early for class and just about every party I’ve ever been invited to. Except for my last interview. I was on time. The train to Manhattan was late, and let’s just say I ran the last seven blocks and up an avenue to get there on time. I was so glad that I got back into running the week before. The lesson: don’t just take the early train; take the extra early train.
2. Spend The Money
Almost being late to my interview could have been totally avoided if I just spent the $2 on the subway. But no, as a poor recent college graduate, I had to save the TWO DOLLARS and walk to the building the interview was taking place. It was roughly a 25 block walk. This rule also applies to your interview outfit. Not only do you probably need something more appropriate (whether it’s shoes, coat, or a dress), it also gives you a confidence boost. Dressing for the position you want is important.
3. Bring Tissues
There is no deodorant that can stop your sweat after running seven blocks. There is no setting spray that can save your foundation after going 0-100 real quick. The sleeve of your coat can only do so much. Bring a travel size pack of tissues to wipe away your forehead sweat and if need be, under your arms. Plus, if you don’t get the job, or worse, a giant blister on your toe because you didn't wear socks with those boots like your mother told you, you have something to wipe away your tears. Better to be safe than sorry.
4. Bring A Notebook & Your Resume
I’m that girl who always has a notebook on her anyway, but bringing a notebook to an interview is crucial. I like to go through the job description and write down the must have qualifications and then write notes on how I meet those qualifications with examples. It’s kind of like planning out an essay like they have been forcing us to do since middle school. Who knew something from seventh grade English class would come in handy? I also jot down any questions I have about the position or about the company. If all else fails, at least it makes you look like an organized person. Always a plus! BRINGING YOUR RESUME TO A JOB INTERVIEW IS VITAL. In this day and age, I have always had to submit my resume via the Internet. But it’s important to bring a hard copy with you to the interview because the person who is interviewing you probably has a million other things to do and might forget. You always want to be prepared.
5. Don’t Wear Spanx/Spandex If You’ve Never Worn Them
Boy, did I learn this the hard way. In case you didn’t know, running seven blocks in a dress with Spanx dress slip on underneath in heels isn’t fun. You either have to stop every two minutes to not so discreetly pull your Spanx down or just let it live its life near up your waist. Before you know it, you’re in the elevator by yourself pulling them down from your chest back to where they belong. This rule doesn’t just apply to Spanx by the way. Now is not the time to try out that new lipstick or foundation or maybe experience with a hair product. Stick to the things you know will work for you. This way you won’t have to worry about things working out. Instead, you can focus on nailing that interview.
*BONUS TIP* Don’t Wear Perfume/Cologne
Of course, you want to smell good. But what happens when your interviewer doesn’t like the smell of it? What if the scent chokes them or brings them back to a negative moment? Don’t let small things like that prevent you from getting a dream job of yours.
Those are my tips to do well while you’re at a job interview. Learn from my mistakes. Laugh at my silly blunders. Share them with your friends when they’re nervous for their interview that’s coming up. Just don’t make a fool out of yourself like I did. Trust me, these tips will save you from a whole lot of embarrassment. If you have any other tips to rock a job interview, make sure you leave them below in hopes I don’t screw up my interview at Burger King next week.
