Your
manners make a statement. If you are courteous and thoughtful, it says that
you get along with people and you have a respect for seniority. Good manners
are important. They show you are civilized and sociable
Manners & Business
Etiquette:
- Arrive early – 15 minutes before the interview. It indicates whether you are reliable and whether you will show up for work on time.
- The interview really starts at the front door. Be very pleasant and very courteous when you check in the receptionist or secretary – you can bet they will give the manager some feedback on what they thought of you once you have left the building.
- Be patient when waiting for the interview – even though you have an appointment.
- Offer a firm handshake.
- Use eye
contact - Sit straight in the chair – not leaning back. It shows you are alert and interested. Sit only when invited to sit –shows respect to manager’s territory.
- Arms resting – not folded.
- Control nervous behaviors (tapping feet, pen).
- Respond by smiling or nodding your
head – shows
interest.
- Control giggling or laughing.
- If the telephone rings during the interview, don’t be “all ears.” Distract yourself.
- If someone comes into the manager’s office during the interview, stand up – it might be the manager’s boss.
- Always accept a soft drink or water if it is offered. It shows that you are sociable.
- Apply alone.
- Don’t argue about anything, even baseball.
- Don’t carry your coat into the manager’s office. Carrying it says you can’t wait to get out of there.
- Allow enough time for the interview.
- Be
prepared – know what position you are applying for, bring:
Your resume- Your references
- Your ID
- Social Security Card
- A notebook & pen (write the manager’s name, address & phone number in your notebook)
- Prepared questions to ask the employer
Attitude:
it separates the winners from the losers. It can be more important than experience
and makes a statement. If you act enthusiastic and eager, the impression
is that you are an enthusiastic and eager worker. If you act to timid or
too quiet, it implies that you may need a lot of supervision. Managers are
looking for someone who is motivated and who is excited about coming to work.
