Lesson 3 - OMG - you wore what?

You know, it’s good to be yourself. And it’s good to be honest. But in an interview, there is such a thing as being too honest, and being yourself too much.

First things first. Always dress up for an interview. If you’re not going to wear a suit or business professional attire, at least ratchet up your appearance to business casual. If you’re wearing a tie, make sure to straighten it and button up. Forget about wearing a hat. And no matter what everyone else is wearing at an interview, remember, it’s not about them. It’s about you.

But be careful to think everything is about you. You know, everyone’s got their preferences, quirks, and crazy dressing habits. But admitting in an interview that, on a normal day, you’ll come to work dressed in combat boots and spiky hair just isn’t going to impress a whole lot of people. Admitting that you normally look ridiculous is the fastest way of losing the job—would you hire someone who described themselves as ridiculous? And don’t try to justify things either by saying that no one else is going to care or even see what you look like. That shows a very strong me-first attitude, and an interviewer doesn’t want to hear that. They want to know you’re a team player who’ll adjust to the workplace, not someone who expects the workplace to adjust to you.

And finally, make sure to present yourself in a professional manner in everything you do, including your posture. Slouching in your seat, putting your feet up, or just sitting back says, “I’m not serious about this job!” Sit upright, make regular eye contact, and appear relaxed but not too relaxed.

And, for your own sake, turn off your cell phone before an interview.

So what else should you do and not do before and during your interview? Check out the Interviewing section for more suggestions.