I have a job interview in the morning, and I'm wondering from a professional, and interviewer standpoint does it look unprofessional, and unprepared to have and refer to notes during your interview? It's a big interview, and I'm really nervous I will forget something. Should I just do the best I can without the notes, or would it look okay to bring notes? Would prefer the opinion of people who actually conduct interviews. Thanks in advance.
First Job Interview After Graduating - How to Prepare Even If You've NEVER Had a Job! (Part One)
Recommended Answer:Bad idea in the eyes of those doing the interview. I spent 20+ years interviewing people for jobs and never had one applicant sit before me with notes. Things get real close between a few candidates and then it gets subjective as hell because they are all equal. Let me assure you that being "the guy with the notes" is not what you want as their memory cue.
Sit upright hands together and on the table. Eye contact all the time. Smile when it fits. They always get around to the so-called tough question. It's the one that requires you to get into opinions, objectives, goals, work style,etc. On this one pause before answering. Even ask for a clarification. A hard answer one way or the other is not good on this question. More of an opportunity for you to demonstrate some thoughtful pros and cons on the issue..
Walk in with the demeanor of someone who is their equal and leave the same way. No kissing up and gushy thank yous. OK?
9 Steps to Job Interview Success
- I interview quite often and would suggest that you leave the notes behind. First off, employers are going to expect a certain amount of nervousness such as shaking, sweating and stuttering. Be yourself, be honest and don't be afraid to say "I don't know". You should always do a little background research on the company that you are attempting to be employed by. Dress to impress. I always look at the way candidates make there appearance. remember, "First impression is a last impression". A tie and "long sleeve" shirt in most cases should be worn. do a search on interview questions. You will find that most employers are not to concerned about your prior jobs etc.. They will be looking for Morales and Ethical behaviors even before looking at job specific capabilities. Think about what is most important in your life and how you have learned from difficult times, these are questions that will arise in many interviews. You should have questions for the employer such as Benefits and potential growth. Try to remove the stress from your head by forcing your shoulders to drop and let loose. Good luck, hope this helped!
- Absolutely bring notes if needed. As someone who has interviewed numerous candidates, the ones who were prepared always created a stronger impression with our company. So if notes help you remember some of the highlights of your skills and experience that you would like your potential employer to know, then certainly bring them in. One note of caution, just do not continually look at them during the interview as eye contact with your interviewer is crucial to presenting confidence in your interview.
Good luck!
- I personally wouldnt hire somone using notes at an interview, it shows either a lack of organization, a lack of confidence, unpreparedness, or mental defect.. Notes are fine for buisness meetings, or sales pitches, but not interviews.
