Interviewing Tips - Do's and Don'ts

Do's

• Arrive 15 minutes early. Late attendance is never excusable.
• Clarify questions. Be sure you answered the questions the employer really asked.
• Get the interviewer to describe the position and responsibilities early in the conversation so you can relate your skills and background to the position throughout the interview.
• Give your qualifications. Stress the accomplishments that are most pertinent to the job.
• Conduct yourself professionally. Be aware of what your body language is saying. Smile, make eye contact, don't slouch and maintain composure.
• Anticipate tough questions. Prepare in advance so you can turn apparent weaknesses into strengths.
• Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.
• Ask questions throughout the interview. An interview should be a mutual exchange of information, not a one-sided conversation.
• Listen. This is probably the most important ability of all. By concentrating not only on the employer's words, but also on the tone of voice and body language, you will be able to pick up on the employer's style. Once you understand how a hiring authority thinks, pattern your answers accordingly and you will be able to better relate to him or her.

Don'ts

• Don't answer vague questions. Rather than answering questions you think you hear, get the employer to be more specific and then respond.
• Don't interrupt the interviewer. If you don't have time to listen, neither does the client.
• Don't smoke, chew gum or place anything on the employer's desk.
• Don't be overly familiar, even if the employer is doing all of these things.
• Don't wear heavy perfume or cologne.
• Don't ramble. Long answers often make the speaker sound apologetic or indecisive. On the other hand, don't answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain whenever possible.
• Don't lie. Answer questions as truthfully as possible.
• Don't mention salary, defer to the MRI office..
• Don't make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers or companies.

Closing the Interview

Job candidates often second-guess themselves after interviews. By asking good questions and closing strongly, you can reduce post-interview doubts. If you feel that the interview went well and you want to take the next step, express your interest to the interviewer.

Try an approach like the following: "After learning more about your company, the position and responsibilities, I believe that I have the qualities you are looking for. Are there any issues or concerns that would lead you to believe otherwise?"

This is an effective closing quest