The Do's and Donts of Interviewing

Preparation before this all-important appointment will help you make a highly favorable impression that remains top of mind for the interviewer.  Take note of these “dos and don’ts” strategies and make them part of your pre-interview prep.

What do I wear?

Do: 

Put thought into the best apparel choice for an interview with this company. A bit of research via their website, Facebook page, and other social media presence may give clues as to their workplace culture, including the dress code. 

Don’t:

Dress too casually. Even if you are interviewing for a direct care position or if the organization supports a casual approach among the current staff, it’s better to err on the side of being slightly more formal than the typical day-to-day attire. Attention to one’s appearance demonstrates that this job opportunity is a priority for you. 

What do I discuss?

Do: 

Engage in conversation that reflects you’ve checked out the company’s website and social media accounts. Comment on mentions in the local news concerning their recent accomplishments. Are they a 5-Star building or did they just celebrate a milestone? Mention it. Asking about the level of care they provide, how they are adapting to new regulations, or future development plans will demonstrate your interest in the company as well as a knowledge of the industry.

Don’t: 

Talk too much or try to guide the conversation. Let the interviewer lead the discussion. While you want to demonstrate an interest in the company, too many references to their accomplishments, etc., will come across as “buttering them up” rather than as sincere interest.

What do I say when asked about my strengths and weaknesses?

Do: 

Be honest about both. While it may feel uncomfortable to talk about either one, the ability to articulate what you can do well, and what could benefit from improvement in and of itself speaks to your character. Of course, it also provides valuable information toward determining if your skillset matches the position’s responsibilities.

Don’t: 

Brag, boast, or exaggerate abilities, make excuses for weaknesses, or dwell on either longer than is necessary to relay the facts.

How do I answer questions about past employers?

Do: 

Respond with a courteous, diplomatic approach when speaking about past employment opportunities. Strive to say something positive about every work experience on your resume and then transition to the skills you gained that will be advantageous to this position.

Don’t: 

Speak ill of a former employer, either the business itself or the management/workforce as a whole or individually. Such talk will cast you as petty and possibly difficult to work with and could easily be a strike against you for this potential job.

How do I utilize my past accomplishments?

Do: 

Bring up past successes, which apply to the position you hope to land. It’s best to relate those accomplishments to the responsibilities of this prospective job, as that will demonstrate an enthusiasm for how your past can benefit both you and this potential employer moving forward.

Don’t: 

Ramble on about your “glory days” at previous companies. It may give the impression you’re living in the past, instead of the future. Or that you are simply “full of yourself.” Again, don’t dominate the conversation, especially not by spouting one success story after another.

After the interview, promptly send a thank you note. While many folks feel this is merely an unnecessary token gesture, the personal nature of the note can and should express genuine appreciation for the interviewer’s time and consideration. Pre-interview prepping will ease the nervous tension such occasions incite. After that, just take a deep breath, smile, and let the real you shine.