Q&A on Job Interviews
How to Handle Some Situations in the Job Interview
Getting ready for that all important Job Interview? Check out these helpful answers to some important questions.
Let's dip into the Question bag for the latest update on Job Interview skills.
Q. What should I wear to my interview?
A. Much depends on the type of job you are applying to achieve. Obviously, the higher up the ladder, the more formal your attire, but don't overdo it! For any type of office work, a nice suit is always acceptable (men or women) as is a nice jacket and slacks or skirt (um, pants acceptable for both genders, but let's leave the cross dressing of skirts to another era). Programmers can easily wear the proverbial jeans, but do not go too casual with a Tshirt - team it up with a nice dress shirt and optional tie. Construction workers - again, neat, tidy, but don't overdress. Keep jewellery to a minimum for both genders, but don't be afraid to accessorize. Go easy on the scents, too! Many people have allergies and may not appreciate your using the $50 an ounce allergen.
Your main objective is to be comfortable and feel good - this tends to count more than just wearing clothes you feel are appropriate. If you are not comfortable, that's what will come across.
Q. My hands really sweat, and I am afraid to shake hands at my interview. What do I do?
A. We all sweat in stress situations, and if you feel you sweat much more than others, there may be a medical condition - see your doctor for one of the many solutions to excessive sweating. BUT here's a quick solution for anyone - keep some baby powder handy - just before you go into the interview, lightly (and I do mean lightly) dust your hands with the powder. If you don't like the scent of baby or talcum powder - use corn starch or tapioca starch - works the same but no smell. (This little secret also helps with excessive underarm sweat - BUT remember to still use your regular deodorant).
Q. I'm recently divorced and starting my career over - can the interviewer ask me about my ex-partner and other personal details?
A. EMPHATICALLY NO! Prospective employers ARE NOT allowed to ask you your marital status, age, race, religion, political affiliations, financial liens or loans, etc. RUN, do not walk, away from any interview where you are asked to disclose any financial information or sign to allow them to do a credit check on you. Do you really want to work for a company that questions your privacy to that degree?
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Copyright April 27, 2007. Paym Bergson and Suite 101. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized use of this material will constitute an infringement of copyright.
