subject: Don't Let Job Interviews Catch You By Surprise [print this page] As a facial plastic surgeon I have gone through many job interviews during training, had the opportunity to hire office staff, and worked with people on improving their image for job interviews. In short, I have seen all sides. From my experience, I have compiled a short list of things that hopefully will help people improve their job interview skills, especially for those suffering recent unemployment. These are in no particular order.
Don't Be On Time - Be Early! The absolute last thing that a prospective employer wants is an employee who is late. From the employer's perspective, if you can't be on time for the interview, how will you be on time on a daily basis. Be sure that are at least 10 minutes early for an interview. If you are unfamiliar with an area, make a dry run before your interview. If the interview is in a large office building, go so far as to going into the building and finding the office where the interview is to be conducted. If you have to travel a long distance to the interview, consider getting a hotel room near the interview location the night before. If you are paying for your travel and the interview is out of town, arrive a day early to ensure that you are not the victim of airline or mass transit delays. As part of the be early philosophy - Only reschedule an interview if ABSOLUTELY necessary. If you reschedule for a later point in time, this only allows others to make that first impression first - and take your job. Rescheduling also sends the signal that this job is not your priority. No prospective employer wants someone that does not give their position importance.
Be Sure That Your References Are Positive. When asking someone to be a reference, ensure that they will be positive and supportive of you and your abilities. Make sure that they provide you with the best contact information and will be available to provide a timely response for your prospective employer. Just because someone will say something nice, if they can't be reached to say it in a timely manner, it won't help. There is also a difference between a reference and a good reference. Just because someone said they will act as a reference, doesn't mean that they will talk you up and make sure you have the best chance possible at a job.
Remember - Moderation. Whether it is jewelry, makeup, or perfume, moderation is critical - (I would argue that you should not wear perfume or cologne at all). This applies to men as well. Excess of any of these can be distracting. The last thing that a potential employer wants is distraction.
Control Your Hair. Hair is often overlooked but is a very important part of a first impression. Hair should be well groomed. Consider visiting your stylist or barber shortly before the interview - but not too close just in case the stylist gives a less than stellar performance and time is needed for the hair to grow back
