How To have a Successful Interview

Congratulations!! You have been selected to come in and interview with the City of Vero Beach so what can you do to help nail the interview?  Here are some do’s and do nots to help you.

Be on time for your interview!!  “Be on time” actually means plan on getting here 15 minutes early.  This strategy will give you a cushion in case you get lost or there is traffic.  If you are going to be late, call the interviewer and let them know. This is your chance to make a great first impression.

Dress appropriately for an interview.  You do not have to wear a suit and tie for all jobs but do dress professionally.  Avoid holey jeans, flip-flops, and t-shirts.  The way you are dressed is going to be the first thing an employer sees.

Be honest in the interview. If you don’t know the answer, just say so. No one has all the answers. You do not want to be seen as someone who is lying or making up things.

Be prepared to discuss how you have succeeded and contributed to previous employers.  If you don’t have a long work history, use something from your personal life, school, or volunteer work.

Avoid talking badly about former coworkers and bosses.  Yes, we have all worked with toxic people and no workplace will be free of toxic employees.  If you spend the interview complaining, the interviewer may assume that you will speak badly of others as well. You may be seen as a toxic employee. 

Avoid interrupting the interviewer.  If you spend your time talking over the interviewer, you may not hear what they are saying and not fully answer the question.  Wait for the question to be fully asked, take a breath, and finish with a great answer.

Be aware of your body language. Sit up and don’t fidget. Most importantly, maintain eye contact with the interviewer.

Lastly, turn your phone off or leave it in the car.  Your focus should be on the interview. I can pretty much guarantee that if you read a text message or answer the phone, you will not be going any further in our hiring process.