Dress for success – You don’t need to wear a suit and tie to interview for an assembly position, but being one of the better dressed candidates may very well be the thing that sets you apart from the other candidates if there is competition for the position. At a bare minimum your clothing should be clean, pressed, well-fitting, and without holes or writing.
Your first impression starts in the parking lot – Even before you enter the building you need to have your game face on. Carry yourself with purpose. Stand tall, walk confidently, smile, and greet anyone you happen to meet on your way into the building. (One of them may just be the person who is interviewing you.)
Don’t ignore the “gatekeeper” – It’s advice commonly associated with sales, but even when going to interview for a job, the receptionist, executive assistant, or other employees besides the actual interviewer can be your advocate or sink your chances. They may not make the hiring decision, but the person who does may ask them what they thought of you. Even if they’re not specifically asked about you, it’s very likely that if you make a really negative impression with them that they will share that with the interviewer.
Be aware of what your body language is saying – Start with a firm handshake. Maintain eye contact and good poor posture during the interview. Don’t fidget with your hands or feet or shift uncomfortably in your seat. Don’t let yourself become distracted by things going on around you or outside the window.
Do your research – You should know something about the company before your interview. Things like how long it has been in business, where they have offices or facilities, and what products or services they provide. Check out their social media pages, blogs, or recent news articles about the company.
Leave your cell phone in the car – You can live without it for an hour. Having it ring or even vibrate during an interview is likely to leave a bad impression with the interviewer.
Manners cost nothing – Saying please and thank you have never gone out of style, but many these days don’t practice these common courtesies. Good manners may not get you the job, but they may set you apart from other candidates that are less courteous.
ASK QUESTIONS! – It shows that you have a genuine interest in the company, the position, and the person interviewing you.
Follow up – Send a note (hand-written or at least emailed) to the interviewer thanking them for their time, summing up why you feel you meet the criteria for the position, and reiterating your interest in the position.