Career Development (Archived)

Interview Attire, Manners, and Body Language

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Good Manners

What you say and wear are important factors in the interview process, but good manners and attitude are important as well.

To display good manners when interviewing, consider the following:

Punctuality.
Arrive on time and demonstrate reliability and dependability. Do not show up late. Should an emergency arise, call your interviewer and let them know the circumstances. (Got lost, etc.)

Smile.
When you do meet the employer, smile, offer a friendly greeting and extend a firm handshake. This shows your sincerity.

Use Mr. or Ms.
Address your interviewer(s) as Mr. or Ms. unless told otherwise. This demonstrates respect for his or her position.

Don't eavesdrop.
If someone comes into the office or they receive a phone call, don't listen in on the conversation. Busy yourself. Look over your resume and interview materials.

Don't smoke or chew gum.
Enough said.

Don't argue.
Remember not to argue or express a bad attitude while interviewing.

Arrive solo.
Leave family members at home. Do not bring anyone with you. Bringing your children may give the employer the impression daycare will be a problem.