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Interview Tip: First Interview Do’s and Don’ts

Interview Tip: First Interview Do’s and Don’ts

By: Ashley Vigliotti, Account Manager & Senior Recruiter, Direct Sales Recruiting

Nov, 17, 2014

First impressions are everything, and it works both ways. The job you are applying for will want you to impress them, but also if they like you they will also want to make sure that you are impressed with them, particularly if they want you for the job. One way they can do this has a good commercial furniture design in the office, which will hopefully make you go wow. They need an office where you can see yourself working there, but obviously, if you really want to work there, you will need to impress them, especially when it comes to interviewing for a new position. Your first impression may be exactly what lands your dream job. The first thing a hiring manager will take note of during your first interview is your appearance and how you present yourself.

Your appearance is important to a potential employer because if they hire you, you will be representing their company in the future. Keep in mind when you are interviewing for a sales position, the interviewer is always thinking, “Would I buy from this person?” Make your first impression a memorable one by presenting yourself in a professional manner. Your appearance speaks volumes for you and you want the right message to be heard.

Another aspect of the interview that an interviewer will most certainly notice is your preparedness. It is essential to do your research on the company and know what you are walking into. Many times, the very first question a hiring manager will ask is, “What do you know about us?” Treat your interview like a sales call. Do as much research on the company as you would on a potential client. Make sure you come prepared, sell yourself, and close the interviewer for the position.

A few guidelines…

  1. Make sure you are on time. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
  2. Wear a suit or similar. A jacket and tie are a must for a first interview.
  3. Spend time researching the company, the position, and the hiring manager. Go to the company website, review in detail, and take notes. Review the position description, position qualifications, and position requirements in detail. This allows you to be ready to explain why you meet the qualifications and how you will be an asset to the position.
  4. The interviewer wants to know you can sell, so sell yourself! Explain your qualifications as they pertain to the position, your abilities to sell, and your additional key strengths that will showcase your potential.
  5. When speaking to the interviewer, remain engaged. Keep eye contact with the interviewer throughout the conversation. Ask questions and keep the interview a two-way conversation.
  6. Come prepared to your interview. Bring a pen, a pad to jot down notes, at least 2 copies of your resume, and a brag book or documentation of success if you have it. Have 4-5+ qualified interview questions prepared to ask the interviewer.
  7. Get a business card from the interviewer to send a thank you/follow-up email later that day.
  8. Close the interviewer for the position. Express your interest in moving forward and ask what the next step in the process is.

Things NOT to do…

  1. Do not talk negatively about any prior employers.
  2. Do not use any curse words or foul language.
  3. Do not use slang terms or speak to the interviewer with inappropriate familiarity.
  4. Do not wear too much cologne or perfume.
  5. Do not where any facial jewelry (i.e. piercings).

Please continue to check back with the Direct Your Success Blog for more resume, interview, and job hunt tips.

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