Don’t Raise Any Red Flags!
Many of your students will be interviewing for their first “career” job soon. It is important that they understand the mindset of interviewers and the triggers companies use to determine the candidates fit for the organization or position. Usually, when a candidate fails to exhibit these triggers, it could raise a red flag to the interviewer and possibly jeopardize the candidate from being considered for the position.
Companies recognize the excessive cost of employee turnover and have been employing more tools and processes to try and minimize the chances of an employee not working out. As a potential employee going through the interviewing process, your students can benefit from the To-Do List, avoid the red flags, and be better prepared for success.
Here is a list of the traits and behaviors that interviewers look for before, during, and after the interview.
Looking the interviewer in the eye.
Answering questions directly. Avoid giving wandering and vague answers.
Showing up on time for the interview. If you are delayed, call, and have a legitimate excuse.
Researching the company you are interviewing with and knowing what they do and the job function of your interviewer.
Discussing past experiences calmly without a high degree of drama.
Showing energy and speaking with enthusiasm during the interview.
Sharing an honest and candid response to the question, “Please share a mistake you have made and what you learned from the experience.”
Dressing appropriately and speaking and acting in a professional manner.
Displaying politeness, respect, and tidiness.
Providing answers and information that is consistent, and non-conflicting.
Exhibiting curiosity by asking probing questions about the organization or the job.
Sending a post interview thank you note or follow-up in a timely manner.
Not asking about vacation days or work breaks on the first interview.
Not bad-mouthing current or past bosses, coaches, or professors.
Not chewing gum.
Turn off your cell phone prior to beginning the interview.
These are just some of the items gleaned from a No-No list compiled by Kevin Sheridan, an internationally known Keynote Speaker, and New York Times Best Selling Author. Many companies start with this type of list and create their own additions.
I am sure your students will find several items on the list to be basic things that everyone should know. The problem is, too many young candidates get nervous and forget. There is no harm in a little reminder, and, if your students are at least aware of these To-Do’s, they will go into every interview better prepared for success.
Kevin’s Note: During the interviewing process exceptions can and should exist for those who have Asperger’s, disabilities, or other inhibiting conditions.
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