We’ve all heard the old saying: “you never get a second chance to make a great first impression.” When it comes to interviewing successfully, this saying could not possibly be more true!
What to do
Punctuality: The first rule of business etiquette is to arrive at the interview on time. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early in case something slows you down.
Appearance: Applicants with good personal hygiene who look neat and clean give the impression that their work will also be neat and clean. We look at this in great detail in the post “Interviewing for the Win: Dress Like You Want the Job.”
But this is so important, it’s worth discussing more than once.
You do not have to wear expensive clothes to have a good appearance. Wear clothes that are clean and appropriate for the job for which you are interviewing. If a student is applying for a back-of-the-house job, he or she should wear chef pants or checks and a chef coat so that the interviewer knows that the applicant is serious and has appropriate clothing. In all cases, avoid hats, T-shirts, jeans, sleeveless or midriff tops, sneakers and sandals, and excessive jewelry, makeup, and strong perfume. Remember: The key is to avoid wearing anything in excess.
Positive attitude: If applicants smile and are enthusiastic, it suggests that they will do their work with that same attitude. Remember, the ability to smile and stay calm under pressure is necessary for a successful career in any area, but particularly in foodservice. Do not worry about being nervous. Most interviewers will see through the nerves and determine that you are a person who takes a serious attitude toward work.
Good manners: Good manners are the basis for business etiquette (EH-tah-kit). Saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” all show good manners. If you are considerate and thoughtful, the behavior implies that you will also act that way around coworkers and guests, and excellent customer service is expected in the restaurant and foodservice industry.
When meeting the interviewer, remember the following:
- Smile, extend your hand to shake, and exchange a friendly greeting.
- Always call the interviewer “Mr.” or “Ms.,” as appropriate. If they say something like “Just call me Sally” or whatever, do so. But ONLY if they invite you to use their first name.
- Wait until the interviewer invites you to sit before you sit, and then sit up straight.
- Make eye contact and look alert.
- Pay attention and practice effective listening skills.
What NOT to do during your interview
At this point in my career, I’ve interviewed hundreds of people (maybe thousands – I stopped keeping track long before I retired). You would not believe the incredible bad behavior I’ve seen people do – quite unconsciously! – that led me to very quickly end the interview, call friends into the walkin cooler, and laugh about their outrageously unprofessional behavior.
Here’s a quick sampling of things you should never, EVER do during an interview.
- Don’t assume it is okay to use the hiring manager or interviewer’s first name. If in doubt, ask: “Would you prefer I call you Mrs. _______________?”
- Don’t slouch in your chair, rest your feet on the recruiter’s desk, or sprawl out like you want to take a nap.
- Don’t mumble.
- Don’t have your phone out. Don’t answer calls. Don’t text people. If you want to use your phone to take notes during the interview, ask if that is okay first.
- Don’t make jokes. Really. You’re not that funny and unless you are interviewing for a spot on a comedy tour, the story of three chickens going into a bar is both irrelevant and inappropriate
Nonverbal mistakes people make when interviewing (avoid these)
- Don’t cross your arms. Crossing your arms portrays boredom, rigidity and closed-mindedness. Even if you find this posture comfortable, avoid it if possible during the job interview.
- Avoid nervous fidgeting such as playing with your hair or tapping a pen.
- Don’t do the leg wobble (where you jiggle/tap your foot under the table uncontrollably). It sends the message that you are either REALLY nervous or REALLY bored.
Additional Resources on making a good first impression:
Non-Verbal-Interview-Infographic