How To Know You Are Tanking
1. Watch the interviewer's eyes.
An interviewer that is simply going through the motions
will not make eye contact. Check for a glazed or glassy
stare and heavy eyelids.
2. Listen carefully.
A bored or disinterested interviewer may quietly hum a
tune, whistle softly, or shuffle papers repeatedly.
3. Observe actions.
Constant watch- or clock-checking, the eating of a
sandwich, and lots of phone calls are all signs that a job
offer is not forthcoming.
If You Are Late
1. Call ahead. If you are stuck in traffic or otherwise
running late, call. Ask if you should reschedule or if you
should come in anyway.
2. Clean up. If you are sweaty and disheveled, ask to use a
bathroom before meeting your interviewer. If you are
nervous, put anti-perspirant on your palms and face (make
sure it's clear) to reduce moisture.
3. Apologize, but do not overdo it. Say you are sorry for
your tardiness, but do not give a sob story: Never discuss
personal information in a job interview.
If You Are Asked a Difficult or Leading Question
1. Always respond with a positive. If the interviewer says,
"I see you don't have experience making coffee," counter
with, "That's true, but I've always wanted to learn and I'm
a quick study!"
2. Tell a personal story, but only one that relates skills
applicable to the job. If the interviewer asks about
project management experience and you don't have any, talk
about planning your wedding: organizing vendors, designing
a database, and creating seating charts based on the
interests of guests.
3. Put the question off until later. If you are unable to
come up with an answer, say "Can we get back to that later,
I need to give it some thought?" Use this strategy only as
a last resort.
If Your Interviewer Hits on You
1. Accept compliments gracefully. If an interviewer
compliments your suit, blouse, or a piece of jewelry, they
may simply be impressed with your appearance. Say thank you
and move on. More than one compliment is inappropriate and
should be deflected (below).
2. Deflect personal questions. In most states it is illegal
for a job interviewer to ask personal questions, including
age, marital status, children, and sexual preference. If
you get such questions, gently suggest that you keep topics
to professional matters.
3. Say you are not interested. If your interviewer asks you
out on a date, simply say "no thanks." However, if the
interview is at lunch time and things seem to be going
well, it is appropriate to accept a lunch invitation (keep
the conversation on business matters).
4. Accept a date only if you don't want the job. Starting a
new job while being personally involved with someone in the
company is not a good idea. If you make a connection with
your interviewer and there is true chemistry, accept the
invitation but make it clear that you do not want the job.
Be Aware
Always remember the three "C's": Cool, Calm, and Confident.
An interview is as much about you wanting the job as it is
about the job wanting you.
Avoid scheduling interviews after lunch, when most people
get sleepy and irritable.
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Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor.
Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one else can.
Try her practice interview and pick up a copy of her FREE
9-part "Interview Success Tips" report by visiting Carole
on the web at http://www.interviewcoach.com
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