Do not take a holiday from interviewing

Many jobseekers take a vacation from the job search during the holidays, figuring that no one is hiring. This is a mistake on their part, but one that can be used to the diligent jobseeker’s advantage. The fact is employers are hiring all the time. If there is a need for workers, then it does not matter if it is the week of Christmas. And, while it is true that some of those you wish to interview with are on vacation, many others will be working throughout the holidays. Jobseekers who keep up their interviewing schedule during the holidays, or even try to increase their activity, will likely be rewarded with several interviews.

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Important Interview DON'Ts

Most job seekers and recent graduates know what to do on a job interview: Sell why they are best for the job. Sadly, many of these same job seekers make common mistakes during the same interview. Sometimes their mistakes cost them a great retail job.

Use these tips on what not to do during your next retail interview:

• Show up unprepared
• Have nothing to say
• Say too much
• Trash a former employer
• Give too many personal details
• Fidget, bite your nails, or drum your fingers
• Bring only one copy of your resume
• Sit before you’re offered a chair
• Show up late
• Discuss money, time off or benefits unless an offer has been made
• Ask no questions
• Get too comfortable
• Give vague answers
• Use foul language
• Act as if they need you more than you need them
• Forget to shake hands
• Fail to follow up
• Fail to send a thank you note
  

Interview Red Flags

Certain behaviors and reactions displayed during the interview indicate cause for concern. This list was developed after conducting many interviews. Can you think of any Red Flags I missed? Read on!

1. Poor personal appearance.
2. Lack of interest and enthusiasm.
3. Overemphasis on money.
4. Condemnation of past employers.
5. Late for the interview.
6. Failure to express appreciation for the interviewer's time.
7. Asks no questions about the position.
8. Vague response to questions.
9. Overly aggressive, conceited, or know-it-all complex.
10. Inability to express oneself clearly.
11. Lack of planning for a career.
12. Lack of confidence and poise.
13. Unwilling to start at the bottom; expects too much, too soon.
14. Evasive, hedges on unfavorable factors in job history.
15. Lack of maturity.
16. Lethargic, lack of energy.
17. Merely shopping around.
18. Wants job only for a short time.
19. No interest in company or industry.

Employers: Got any more examples? Leave a reply with your example Interview Red Flag!

Job Seekers: Got any Red Flag examples from the other side of the desk? Share them!