Get Hired: Appropriate Interview Etiquette

1. Be on time. - Interview day is definitely not the day to be running late. If you are unfamiliar with the location of your interview take the time to swing by the day before to make sure you understand how to get there. While it is important not to be late, please also be careful not to show up too early. Conducting interviews is often one part of a very busy day for a hiring manager. You probably won't impress anyone if your arrival is announced 30 minutes ahead of schedule.

2. Dress Professionally - Even if you know the company has a casual dress code, professional attire is always best for an interview. Really take the time to put a nice look together so you can present yourself with your best foot forward. It will give the interviewer the impression that you really care about getting this job.

3. Leave The Potty Mouth at Home - Trust me, it is never alright to use profanity in an interview. No matter how relaxed you may feel, always remember where you are. When someone can't keep it together for a one hour interview process, I really have to wonder what kind of behavior they would exhibit if they became a full-time hire.

4. Be Cool - Don't be offended if you're asked to take a skills assessment. It's common and there are various reasons why it's done. Employers have to protect the integrity of their business so it is important for them to be sure the candidate they hire has all the right skills. During an interview, an assessment test is the best way to allow the candidate to show what they really know. Don't let this shake you up. Your behavior is being watching from every angle.

5. Be Conversational - Answer questions completely but don't go overboard. More than "yes/no" answers are necessary to give the interviewer an idea of who you are but avoid telling your life story. Edit your answers to include information about your experiences that are relevant to this job.

6. Don't Bad Mouth Your Previous Employer - This may be difficult but really try to avoid the blame game when it comes to reasons why you left your job. Focus on the positive side of honesty. Maybe your last boss was a big jerk that never gave you credit for your work but you should tell the interviewer that you are looking for a new opportunity where you can openly contribute to the success of the company.

7. Act Interested - Sometimes interviews go long and you may have to meet with two or three people who may repeat some questions. Do your best to remain focused. It is one hour or so of your life that may lead you to your dream job. If you appear tired or disinterested you will be standing out for the wrong reasons. Keep your posture and demeanor in check from the time you introduce yourself to the receptionist until you leave the building. You never know who the hiring manager will come to and say, "What did you think?"

8. Ask a Question - So you're at the end of the interview and you hear, "Do you have any questions?" Yes, you do. Always ask a question. It further reinforces your interest in the job. If you really can't think of a question then ask the interviewer, "What is a typical day like for someone in this position?" The answer can give you an idea of whether or not you would accept an offer from this company.

9. Be Polite - Smile and be sure to end each session with a thank you. People have taken the time out of their day to come out and talk to you. It's good manners to thank them and it is expected.

10. Send a Thank You Note - I'm always surprised that not many people do this but it is one of the easiest ways to make yourself stand out. Take time after the interview to send a quick message back to the employer. If you applied by email, it is permissible to send this note by email as well. Thank the interviewers for their time, tell them how much you appreciated the opportunity to interview with the company, and confirm that you are still interested in the job. If there are two candidates that are otherwise equally qualified, this could help sway the decision in your favor.

If you follow these tips, your interviewers will have only good things to say about you at the end of the day which leads to more job offers and more choices for how you want your career to progress.