Did you know your interview starts the moment you walk through the company’s front door? Everything from the way you interact with the receptionist to your body language are weighed in the decision making process. Here are some ideas of what you should and shouldn’t do for those minutes in the lobby while waiting for your meeting.

1. Be calm and quiet. It is natural to be nervous before an interview but you have to make sure you don’t appear anxious. It is best not to strike up a conversation with the receptionist or other people waiting in the lobby. The receptionist has a job to do and they will become frustrated if overly distracted. Other people waiting could be interviewees or even clients so you run the risk of saying the wrong thing to the wrong person.
2. Ask for literature. We don’t mean to ask for a copy of Jane Eyre to appear intellectual but rather for a company newsletter or a sales brochure. This gives you something to read while you wait but also shows the company that you are genuinely interested in their business.
3. Review your own notes. Now is also a good time to go over your resume, the job description, your research on the company, and your portfolio. This will put the information at the top of your mind so you can think of fresh answers to the questions quickly.
4. Don’t bring something else to read. It can be awkward if the interviewer catches you reading a magazine or a novel while you’re waiting for them. It comes across that you aren’t taking the meeting seriously. Save this for waiting at your doctor’s office instead.
5. Do not use your smart phone. It is difficult to resist the temptation to check in on your Facebook page or browse the Internet but this can be a kiss of death for an interview. Employers want to know that you are dedicated to the job and not easily distracted. If they walk into the lobby to see you texting on your smart phone it will send up an immediate red flag.
6. Don’t listen to music. It may sound strange that this needs to be said but interviewers have seen everything when it comes to candidate behavior. Don’t pop in your ear buds and hit play on your favorite album. Once again, this comes across as distracted behavior.

Are you looking for more advice for your next interview? If you are looking for administrative jobs in St Petersburg, contact StaffEx today.