Career Coaching: Are You D.A.P.P.E.R.: Interview Like A Professional!

Are you currently unemployed and going on countless interviews but don’t receive a call back? Don't fret, Brown Girl From Boston is going to provide helpful tips on shifting your attitude on getting your dream job. I know the term dapper is usually used for gentlemen but dapper can be unisex and used for anyone. Check out the D.A.P.P.E.R. tips before you head out for your next interview!

Pre-Interview:

Dress for success

• Hygiene in check 
• Appropriate Attire 
• Are you looking and smelling like a million bucks

Attitude is 90% 

• How are you feeling? 
• Check your attitude: Is your attitude positive or negative 
• Your attitude can make or break any situation

Positive about the interview

• Go into your interview with an open mind  
• Don’t sell yourself short
• Anything is negotiable (salary, hours, benefits and work environment such as working from home)

Mental checklist during the Interview:

Professionalism

• Did you firmly shake the interviewer's hand? 
• Did you smile? 
• How did you interact with the receptionist and potential colleagues?
• Did you walk in with confidence?
• Did you display appropriate eye contact and are you mindfully listening?

Energy

• How is your energy level? 
• Did you get a good night sleep the night before? 
• Are you going along with the interviewer’s tempo/energy?
• Are you upbeat and alert?

Response

• Are you responding to the questions honestly? 
• Are you displaying appropriate interviewing etiquette such as eye contact and using listening skills

Check yourself before you wreck yourself, as Ice Cube so politely stated! Hold yourself accountability during the interview. Be professional and mainly be authentic. Most importantly don't overanalyze and remember the K.I.S.S. method Keep it Simple, Silly! Simple is beautiful and less complex.

Once you ended the interview, make sure you firmly shake the interviewer(s) hand, smile and thank them for their time. Also, you want to send a professional thank you email or card to the interviewers for their time and giving you the opportunity to discuss your skills, strengths and qualifications. Many interviewees don't send a thank you card/email because they feel as if that isn't going to get them in the door. Nine times out of ten, the interviewer will recognize that kind gesture and remember you for extending your gratitude. Gratitude and attitude goes along way in life!

What interviewing tips did you use to land your current job?

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Email us: drea@browngirlfromboston.com for further questions on career coaching or interviewing tips. We love hearing from our supports!