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Most job seekers do not pay attention to proper interview etiquettes, they get overly excited when called upon and immediately ironed their shirts and trousers/skirts just to look good for the interview. Now that is good, but a lot needs to be involved in sending across the proper message which gives you the right image. Proper interview etiquettes is listed and explained below:

• Arrive early

Arrive early for interview, ask for proper directions before the d-day or do a trial run of the route before the interview to familiarise yourself with the route. Leave home early to avoid traffic, constructions delays and that means you have to plan ahead. No one wants to hire a late comer.

• Switch off your mobile phones

I would have suggested that you put your mobile phone on vibration but that may distract you during the course of the interview. It is safe to switch it off before entering the building, so you don’t forget. Phone ringing, beeping or even vibration makes you rude, unorganised and self-important.  

• Smile- Don’t be too serious

According to Angela Rose, “While you should not treat the interviewer like your BFF (that’s “Best Friend Forever” for those of you who are not a teenage girl), or crack inappropriate jokes, do not hesitate to crack a smile. In fact, crack several. Be happy and you’ll immediately increase your employment chances. Happy people are productive people, and productive people are the people companies want to hire.” Smile!

• You can make extra two copies of your resume, incase the interviewer requested for one, or has misplaced the one you sent, leaving you with the extra copy as a spare one for yourself.

• Be respectful; don’t present yourself as being too knowledgeable. Accept corrections.

• Stand behind a chair until you’re invited to sit down. Do not place your personal belongings on the table (bag, phones, etc.). You may place your file on the table.

• At the conclusion of the interview, deliver a firm handshake and a hearty “thank you.”