A Guide to Acing the Interview—and Standing Out
Turn on the Smile, Turn off the Phone
The Basics: Do’s and Don’ts
There is plenty for an interviewee to remember, but the basics usually come down to five do’s and five don’ts.
The Do’s:
- Do research the company at which you are interviewing; know as much as possible.
- Do prepare informed questions to ask about the company and job.
- Do bring an up-to-date copy of your résumé.
- Do maintain good posture, a neat appearance, regular eye contact and a positive attitude.
- Do send a thank-you or follow-up note to the interviewer(s). A hand-written note will have much more impact than an email or text.
The Don’ts:
- Don’t use your cell phone to talk or text; leave your phone in your pocket or purse.
- Don’t interrupt or talk over your interviewer.
- Don’t misrepresent yourself—your biography, your experience or your priorities.
- Don’t speak negatively of others, including current or former employers.
- Don’t be late.
The Best: How to Stand Out
Express managers and franchise owners say the best interviewees stand out because of their honesty and sincerity. Being confident, poised and polished goes a long way. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the job matters. How seriously a candidate 
treats an interview is a reflection of how seriously that person can be expected to treat the job.
Using specific examples to ask questions is also important. Speaking in generalities will indicate a lack of seriousness or thoughtfulness.
Express offers a free educational program called “Job Genius” to teach young adults how to successfully enter the workforce. Job seekers can access the program and video series at www.ExpressPros.com/JobGenius