Before The Job Interview, An Enemy Lurks

Preparing for and the contemplation of a job interview ranks high as one of the most stressful moments of a person’s life.  Being fired or unemployed doesn’t even rank as high.  Nonetheless, it is a necessary evil in the procurement of most jobs.  

Keep in mind that having an interview is in itself a very positive thing.  Already the hirer is impressed with

you on paper.  You look good enough they believe you qualify for the position they are offering. 

So think positive thoughts as you prepare.

Like public speaking (another high-stress situation), preparation is KEY.  You can do a lot to de-stress the situation by thinking and planning ahead, both mentally and physically.

Consider what you should take with you.  Gather those things and put them in a small briefcase or a folder.   These 4 things should be at the top of your list. 

#1  Your Resume:

First and foremost is having a copy of your resume.  It may even be a good idea to take more than one copy, in case one gets a coffee stain, or more than one individual within the company needs a copy.  Some hirers only ask for a completed application, but try havinga resume already prepared anyway.   It shows forethought and that you are interested enough in them to have done your homework.

#2  Pen and Paper: 

Likely during the interview, you will want to jot down notes on some of the topics brought up.  Perhaps names and/or contact information, hours you will be expected to work, addresses to which you will need to report.  Logically, having a working pen (test it first) or two, and a notepad available  will show the hiring agent that you are serious about this job.

 #3   List of References: 

Another document to already have prepared is your List of References.  This is an easy document to make ready, but very important.  Type up a list of three non-family individuals who can vouch for your character and work ethic.  Make sure they themselves are dependable, as they may have to return a call.  It is standard practice (and polite) to get permission from these individuals ahead of time, letting them know they may be called as a Reference. 

#4 Letters of Recommendation: 

If you have received any Letters of Recommendation from noteworthy individuals from your past or previous employers, have clean copies of those available.  Make sure to provide their contact information somewhere in the document, either in their Header/Footer, at the Signature Line, or within the last paragraph.  If by the end of the interview, the hirer has not asked you about any Letters of Recommendation (or Letters of Reference), let them know they are available should they be interested in seeing them.

Plan Your Attire

The day before the interview, plan what you will wear.  It should be normal business attire, nothing too extravagant, tight or revealing, and nothing too casual. 

Make sure your hair (beard too if you have one) is well trimmed, the style neat and tasteful. 

Polish up those shoes; clip and clean your fingernails.  If “blending in” isn’t your forte, remember there is a lot of competition out there, and appearances (especially first ones) speak volumes about the type of employee you will be.

In addition, try to get a good night’s sleep the night before.  Sleeping rejuvenates and re-charges the brain. 

Granted, you may have a lot on your mind, making sleep hard to come by.  If you find that to be the case, try to distract your thoughts.  

Put on an interesting movie or read a fascinating book (nothing too stimulating).  Go visit a friend and engage them in some meaningful conversation. 

Stay away from stimulants which  may prevent you from falling asleep, like caffeine drinks or strenuous exercise before bedtime.  Do whatever you must to clear your mind, relax, so that you will be able to rest well.

Most Importantly --  Think Positively!  Keep in mind that they have already been impressed with you on paper.  Now show them you didn’t lie  – you really are talented and terrific!