Cynopsis: Seven Things Not To Do On Interviews

Article for Cynopsis email newsletter SEVEN THINGS NOT TO DO ON INTERVIEWS

By Mark Levine Every person conducting a job search looks for reasons to eliminate candidates. They want to make their life as easy as possible and that means narrowing the field as much as possible, as quickly as possible. Not giving them reasons to scratch you off the list is more than half the battle.

Don’t schedule meetings on Mondays or Fridays if you can help it. Monday they’ll feel burdened by their workload, and Friday they’ll be preoccupied about escaping for the weekend. In either case they won’t give you undivided attention.

Don’t meet over a meal or coffee. If it’s unavoidable, have them order first. If pressed, explain you’ve never been there and ask what they’d suggest. Whatever is served, make sure you leave the occasion still hungry and thirsty.

Don’t cut a memorable appearance. Forget flamboyance and style, even if you’re in an artistic industry. Think plain vanilla business garb. You want them to remember your qualifications, accomplishments and erudition, not that you wore cowboy boots or a giant parrot head pin.

Don’t make small talk. No comments on pictures on the wall, the furniture, or the view. You’re not going to get an offer because you both own Airedales and appreciate the work of Cindy Sherman. This isn’t speed dating it’s a business meeting.

Don’t volunteer. This is their show, not yours. You can try to subtly steer things, but only in ways that keep the focus on their interests. You want them to feel like they’re buying, rather than being sold.

Don’t ask about anything that benefits you, like salary, vacation, or perks. This is all about your being able to fill their needs, not about their being able to fill your wants.

Don’t follow up too soon or pester. Wait 24 hours before offering written thanks via email or telephone. And then don’t get in touch again unprompted, for another 48 hours. If you don’t hear back after 96 hours, forget about the job. If they eventually call back later than that it can be apleasant surprise.