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Job interview - Help
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1
#1
2 Frags +

Um so I got a job interview for more of a business etiquette than I know of. It is for a small business firm that designs websites. I know that I should wear a tie, wear dress slacks and shirts. But honestly how do I act more than just standing up right, firm handshakes, eye contact. Or is that basically it?

Um so I got a job interview for more of a business etiquette than I know of. It is for a small business firm that designs websites. I know that I should wear a tie, wear dress slacks and shirts. But honestly how do I act more than just standing up right, firm handshakes, eye contact. Or is that basically it?
2
#2
1 Frags +

I've never worn a tie to a software development position interview.. they're usually pretty laid back, a nice dress shirt some jeans and nice shoes is a good call.

Try not to be nervous, remember it's just an interview not an inquisition. Try to remain calm so if they ask technical questions you'll have a clear head to answer them. Be confident, but not cocky. Try to make yourself feel sure of yourself, but don't act arrogant. Be friendly, no one wants to work with a douchebag so just think of what kind of person you'd like to have as a coworker and act like that, but maybe a little more professional.

I've never worn a tie to a software development position interview.. they're usually pretty laid back, a nice dress shirt some jeans and nice shoes is a good call.

Try not to be nervous, remember it's just an interview not an inquisition. Try to remain calm so if they ask technical questions you'll have a clear head to answer them. Be confident, but not cocky. Try to make yourself feel sure of yourself, but don't act arrogant. Be friendly, no one wants to work with a douchebag so just think of what kind of person you'd like to have as a coworker and act like that, but maybe a little more professional.
3
#3
2 Frags +

Everyone does the eye contact, firm handshake blah blah blah. You should also act enthusiastic about the job. Have your answers ready (If you go on a bunch of interviews you will see everyone asks the same questions). Google some common interview questions etc.

Everyone does the eye contact, firm handshake blah blah blah. You should also act enthusiastic about the job. Have your answers ready (If you go on a bunch of interviews you will see everyone asks the same questions). Google some common interview questions etc.
4
#4
7 Frags +

Read up on the company and familiarize yourself with how they operate. Also, never ever wear jeans to any interview.

Read up on the company and familiarize yourself with how they operate. Also, never ever wear jeans to any interview.
5
#5
0 Frags +

confidence is key in interviews. I've successfully gotten jobs that i'm well underqualified for by just having a good interview. I can charm anyone in person though. I like to research my interviewer/the company a bit and look for things that I can relate to (i.e. if they all graduated from UCLA, and you did too, talk about that. or if they use dreamweaver and you've been using it since macromedia mx suite or whatever, talk about it)

finally, don't understate yourself. and emphasize your good/best qualities.

good luck on your interview

confidence is key in interviews. I've successfully gotten jobs that i'm well underqualified for by just having a good interview. I can charm anyone in person though. I like to research my interviewer/the company a bit and look for things that I can relate to (i.e. if they all graduated from UCLA, and you did too, talk about that. or if they use dreamweaver and you've been using it since macromedia mx suite or whatever, talk about it)

finally, don't understate yourself. and emphasize your good/best qualities.

good luck on your interview
6
#6
-2 Frags +
DrakeMegrimAlso, never ever wear jeans to any interview.

business casual is so 1980s, join us in 2012 it's comfortable

[quote=DrakeMegrim]Also, never ever wear jeans to any interview.[/quote]

business casual is so 1980s, join us in 2012 it's comfortable
7
#7
0 Frags +
imphasingDrakeMegrimAlso, never ever wear jeans to any interview.
business casual is so 1980s, join us in 2012 it's comfortable

Depends where you work.
My argument is always to never wear jeans. They may be a laid back employer and probably be casual but still what if they're not, there is no harm in wearing Black trousers, there is a possibility of them getting the wrong impression if you wear jeans.

Selling your best qualities gets you the job, know what they want and give it to them but don't sound like you just got it off their job description. Always prepare for every possible question. Every skill you list always have a scenerio or two in your head where you can sell it to them. Definitely look at their website, find out things about them and ask good questions such as potential projects you might be working on etc etc.

Relax, firm handshake, be confident and SMILE. And for the love of god come 10-20 minutes early.

[quote=imphasing][quote=DrakeMegrim]Also, never ever wear jeans to any interview.[/quote]

business casual is so 1980s, join us in 2012 it's comfortable[/quote]

Depends where you work.
My argument is always to never wear jeans. They may be a laid back employer and probably be casual but still what if they're not, there is no harm in wearing Black trousers, there is a possibility of them getting the wrong impression if you wear jeans.

Selling your best qualities gets you the job, know what they want and give it to them but don't sound like you just got it off their job description. Always prepare for every possible question. Every skill you list always have a scenerio or two in your head where you can sell it to them. Definitely look at their website, find out things about them and ask good questions such as potential projects you might be working on etc etc.

Relax, firm handshake, be confident and SMILE. And for the love of god come 10-20 minutes early.
8
#8
0 Frags +
Nin2246Um so I got a job interview for more of a business etiquette than I know of. It is for a small business firm that designs websites. I know that I should wear a tie, wear dress slacks and shirts. But honestly how do I act more than just standing up right, firm handshakes, eye contact. Or is that basically it?

If you're going to wear a tie you really out to wear a suit jacket. Ties without jackets can occasionally work in some situations, but not in job interviews.

[quote=Nin2246]Um so I got a job interview for more of a business etiquette than I know of. It is for a small business firm that designs websites. I know that I should wear a tie, wear dress slacks and shirts. But honestly how do I act more than just standing up right, firm handshakes, eye contact. Or is that basically it?[/quote]

If you're going to wear a tie you really out to wear a suit jacket. Ties without jackets can occasionally work in some situations, but not in job interviews.
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#9
-1 Frags +
10
#10
1 Frags +

make sure you dress casual but comfortable, and look into these questions. they're very common...they wont ask every single one but you should expect at least 2-3

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobposter/small-business/article.aspx?articleid=ATL_0082INTERVIEWQUESTIONS

and like other people said it is very important to do research about the company, know the position you're applying for no matter how basic it is even if its just to get your foot in the door. and also have some knowledge concerning positions that are a little more advanced, or take more experience so you know what other opportunities they have. be honest, direct, firm. doesn't hurt to smile but don't be grinning from ear to ear the entire time. just be yourself and you will do fine. the nerves disappear once you finally sit down and start talking for sure

make sure you dress casual but comfortable, and look into these questions. they're very common...they wont ask every single one but you should expect at least 2-3

http://www.careerbuilder.com/jobposter/small-business/article.aspx?articleid=ATL_0082INTERVIEWQUESTIONS

and like other people said it is very important to do research about the company, know the position you're applying for no matter how basic it is even if its just to get your foot in the door. and also have some knowledge concerning positions that are a little more advanced, or take more experience so you know what other opportunities they have. be honest, direct, firm. doesn't hurt to smile but don't be grinning from ear to ear the entire time. just be yourself and you will do fine. the nerves disappear once you finally sit down and start talking for sure
11
#11
0 Frags +

Prepare at least 2 questions to ask something about the job/company that goes beyond/builds upon the information you already have. Gives you more of an idea of what to expect and shows them that you're interested.

Not sure how technical the position you're applying for is, but if you're answering technical questions, make a point of thinking aloud. Even if you can't find an optimal answer on the fly, you can demonstrate the kind of logical thought process that would get you to an optimal answer pretty quickly (especially with colleagues, research material, etc.)

Prepare at least 2 questions to ask something about the job/company that goes beyond/builds upon the information you already have. Gives you more of an idea of what to expect and shows them that you're interested.

Not sure how technical the position you're applying for is, but if you're answering technical questions, make a point of thinking aloud. Even if you can't find an optimal answer on the fly, you can demonstrate the kind of logical thought process that would get you to an optimal answer pretty quickly (especially with colleagues, research material, etc.)
12
#12
0 Frags +

If you are going to an actual business or corporate dress to the T. How you dress is how they will look at you. If you go in looking like some guy who takes it easy, they will assume you are not serious and in other cases a joke. Depending on the variation of questions, if it relates to doing a job using a specific software suite or code. Hit them with the book. Be precise and give variations of solutions. Most places are looking for a specialization in one area and then jack of all trades to everything else. Be personable, they don't want a machine. Don't EVER be intimidated. They don't want someone who is there to be walked on. They want someone with similar values and who can handle people. Hit on your strong points and bend your weaknesses (if they hit an area you may not be competent in.) Assure them you are willing to learn and keep up with technology. Most IT based jobs are looking for stability, personality, and values similar to theirs. You are not there just for a job, you are there to aim high and eventually push them to the next step in their businesses growth. Make yourself an asset.

I was an executive chef for a while and had to interview all kinds of people but it was a fine dining restaurant with a meager income of just over a million a year. Even in that environment, guys coming in for a dish washing job would come in a button up and tie. That sounds ridiculous but it shows how serious you are about what you are after.

Good luck and have fun with it.

If you are going to an actual business or corporate dress to the T. How you dress is how they will look at you. If you go in looking like some guy who takes it easy, they will assume you are not serious and in other cases a joke. Depending on the variation of questions, if it relates to doing a job using a specific software suite or code. Hit them with the book. Be precise and give variations of solutions. Most places are looking for a specialization in one area and then jack of all trades to everything else. Be personable, they don't want a machine. Don't EVER be intimidated. They don't want someone who is there to be walked on. They want someone with similar values and who can handle people. Hit on your strong points and bend your weaknesses (if they hit an area you may not be competent in.) Assure them you are willing to learn and keep up with technology. Most IT based jobs are looking for stability, personality, and values similar to theirs. You are not there just for a job, you are there to aim high and eventually push them to the next step in their businesses growth. Make yourself an asset.

I was an executive chef for a while and had to interview all kinds of people but it was a fine dining restaurant with a meager income of just over a million a year. Even in that environment, guys coming in for a dish washing job would come in a button up and tie. That sounds ridiculous but it shows how serious you are about what you are after.

Good luck and have fun with it.
13
#13
0 Frags +

Be confident, and have questions for them at the end of the interview. Don't over think this.

Be confident, and have questions for them at the end of the interview. Don't over think this.
14
#14
Twitch
2 Frags +
Nin2246Um so I got a job interview for more of a business etiquette than I know of. It is for a small business firm that designs websites. I know that I should wear a tie, wear dress slacks and shirts. But honestly how do I act more than just standing up right, firm handshakes, eye contact. Or is that basically it?

Honesty is huge. Make sure that they understand that you are intelligent, confident and willing to learn. Knowledge can only take you so far when it comes to a career. Passion and a thirst for knowledge is far more important than any college degree can give you. Ask questions. This shows that you want to learn. There is no such thing as a stupid question, and the answer to life is 42.

I knew nothing about the world of online advertising, negotiating, running a site, etc before I started at Twitch. They saw that I had the passion and desire to learn, so they hired me. Pretty much everybody works this way. As long as you have the baseline "requirements" and a hunger for more, you'll get hired.

*emphasis

[quote=Nin2246]Um so I got a job interview for more of a business etiquette than I know of. It is for a small business firm that designs websites. I know that I should wear a tie, wear dress slacks and shirts. But honestly how do I act more than just standing up right, firm handshakes, eye contact. Or is that basically it?[/quote]

[b]Honesty [/b]is huge. Make sure that they understand that you are [b]intelligent[/b], [b]confident[/b] and [b]willing to learn[/b]. Knowledge can only take you so far when it comes to a career. [b]Passion[/b] and a [b]thirst for knowledge[/b] is far more important than any college degree can give you. Ask questions. This shows that you want to learn. There is no such thing as a stupid question, and the answer to life is 42.

I knew nothing about the world of online advertising, negotiating, running a site, etc before I started at Twitch. They saw that I had the passion and desire to learn, so they hired me. Pretty much everybody works this way. As long as you have the baseline "requirements" and a hunger for more, you'll get hired.


*emphasis
15
#15
-1 Frags +

What John said, attitude is far more important than a paper (degree), you already past this step anyway if they ask you for an interview. Talk about your passions in the field, talk about your past projects, etc... Listen to the questions and try to be as comfortable as possible.

What John said, attitude is far more important than a paper (degree), you already past this step anyway if they ask you for an interview. Talk about your passions in the field, talk about your past projects, etc... Listen to the questions and try to be as comfortable as possible.
16
#16
2 Frags +

Make sure you rehearse basic questions.

- Tell me about yourself
- What do you offer to the company
- Why do you want to work for X
- Behavioral questions: Name a difficult scenario, how you overcame, and the result of it

The other important thing is to think about the image you want to convey to your potential employer. They want to know if you are someone they would WANT to work with. I'm sure if they are bringing you in for an interview, you are most likely already qualified. What they are gleaning from a face-to-face interview is "Would I want to grab a beer with this guy?" or "Can I depend on him?" Be personable. Smile and joke around when appropriate. Show confidence: firm handshake and direct eye contact.

Also, smile. People like to be around happy people. Be happy!!

Goodluck!

Make sure you rehearse basic questions.

- Tell me about yourself
- What do you offer to the company
- Why do you want to work for X
- Behavioral questions: Name a difficult scenario, how you overcame, and the result of it

The other important thing is to think about the image you want to convey to your potential employer. They want to know if you are someone they would WANT to work with. I'm sure if they are bringing you in for an interview, you are most likely already qualified. What they are gleaning from a face-to-face interview is "Would I want to grab a beer with this guy?" or "Can I depend on him?" Be personable. Smile and joke around when appropriate. Show confidence: firm handshake and direct eye contact.

Also, smile. People like to be around happy people. Be happy!!

Goodluck!
17
#17
0 Frags +

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vko6UMajjyE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vko6UMajjyE
18
#18
0 Frags +

Ask a shitload of questions and make sure you don't look desperate for money.

Also, when people are doing interviews, especially for an office, they are looking at whether they can be friends with someone and get along with them in addition to getting the work done.

Ask a shitload of questions and make sure you don't look desperate for money.

Also, when people are doing interviews, especially for an office, they are looking at whether they can be friends with someone and get along with them in addition to getting the work done.
19
#19
0 Frags +

Few dress tips: Belt color matches shoe color. Don't wear square-toed shoes. Shoulder seems should end at your shoulders. Don't wear a red tie. Don't get matchy-matchy with your tie and shirt.

Few dress tips: Belt color matches shoe color. Don't wear square-toed shoes. Shoulder seems should end at your shoulders. Don't wear a red tie. Don't get matchy-matchy with your tie and shirt.
20
#20
0 Frags +

Alright thanks a lot for all the advice. I am wearing the suit I wore to Homecoming at my high school senior year. Don't worry it looks really good. Also I guess I should have said I did call them up over the phone book asking if they were even looking to hire a new employee/ or accepting internships. I think it should go great.

QuesDon't wear square-toed shoes.

What is wrong with square toed shows??? I think they look better.... Coming from an 18 year old kid.

Alright thanks a lot for all the advice. I am wearing the suit I wore to Homecoming at my high school senior year. Don't worry it looks really good. Also I guess I should have said I did call them up over the phone book asking if they were even looking to hire a new employee/ or accepting internships. I think it should go great.

[quote=Ques]Don't wear square-toed shoes. [/quote]
What is wrong with square toed shows??? I think they look better.... Coming from an 18 year old kid.
21
#21
Twitch
0 Frags +

We like pointy stuff :p

We like pointy stuff :p
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#22
0 Frags +
Nin2246What is wrong with square toed shows??? I think they look better.... Coming from an 18 year old kid.

http://pbr2010.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/mexican-pointy-boots-by-edith-valle-31.jpg

[quote=Nin2246]
What is wrong with square toed shows??? I think they look better.... Coming from an 18 year old kid.[/quote]


[img]http://pbr2010.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/mexican-pointy-boots-by-edith-valle-31.jpg[/img]
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#23
0 Frags +
Nin2246Alright thanks a lot for all the advice. I am wearing the suit I wore to Homecoming at my high school senior year. Don't worry it looks really good. Also I guess I should have said I did call them up over the phone book asking if they were even looking to hire a new employee/ or accepting internships. I think it should go great.
QuesDon't wear square-toed shoes. What is wrong with square toed shows??? I think they look better.... Coming from an 18 year old kid.

A square toe-box isn't flattering to the shape of your foot. You should accentuate it.

http://www.details.com/style-advice/rules-of-style/200702/men-shouldnt-wear-square-toe-shoes

Invest in some wing-tips. You'll literally drown in pussy.

[quote=Nin2246]Alright thanks a lot for all the advice. I am wearing the suit I wore to Homecoming at my high school senior year. Don't worry it looks really good. Also I guess I should have said I did call them up over the phone book asking if they were even looking to hire a new employee/ or accepting internships. I think it should go great.

[quote=Ques]Don't wear square-toed shoes. [/quote]
What is wrong with square toed shows??? I think they look better.... Coming from an 18 year old kid.[/quote]

A square toe-box isn't flattering to the shape of your foot. You should accentuate it.

http://www.details.com/style-advice/rules-of-style/200702/men-shouldnt-wear-square-toe-shoes

Invest in some wing-tips. You'll literally drown in pussy.
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