[...]... prepare for a goof-proof interview experience Adequate interview preparation begins long before the day of the interview Goof-Proof Interviews will show you all the pieces that make up the perfect interview, which will help you secure the job you are reaching for Excellent interview techniques, tips, and strategies are tackled one by one in Goof-Proof Interviews In this book, you will uncover the Goof-Proof. .. the never-ending to-do list Make that hire be you by following the Goof-Proof Rules After using this book and mastering the Goof-Proof Rules, you will be able to interview with ease, get the job you are reaching toward, and embark on a successful career path Ready to goof-proof your interviews? Good Then let’s get started xiii goof-proof INTERVIEWS section ONE THE GOOF-UP: STARTING OFF ON THE WRONG FOOT... how to spin your experiences into the right words to get the right reaction G HOW THE GOOF-PROOF METHOD WORKS G The 47 Goof-Proof Rules are presented in Goof-Up form You will read about a common mistake, then learn how to Goof-Proof xii g o o f - p ro o f I N T E RV I E W S yourself, or avoid the mistake Goof-Proof Interviews covers all the essential areas for successful interview situation, such as:... in wearable condition G GOOF-PROOF IT! G While many businesses are casual in attire, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can show up for your interview casually dressed Although this rule is simple and easy to follow, it is amazing that so many candidates manage to miss something To easily Goof-Proof your interview outfit, simply follow the appropriate checklist G G GOOF-PROOF CHECKLIST G Checklist... another one, such as during your lunch hour or after 5:00 P.M G GOOF-PROOF RULE OF THUMB G Never simply respond in the negative; always suggest an alternative date and time Remember, many candidates are suitable to fill any given position in this job market To secure a meeting, be easy to schedule and you will already have a point in your favor G Goof-Proof Your Dialogue Wrong: Um, 3:00 P.M is no good Wrong:... materials to bring • Say “thank you.” 3 4 g o o f - p ro o f I N T E RV I E W S G GOOF-PROOF RULE OF THUMB G If you have more than one interview commitment in a single day, make sure you leave plenty of time to travel in between appointments Always allow ample time for traffic, parking, or delays with public transportation G Goof-Proof Your Dialogue Wrong: Uh, okay, see you then [Click.] Wrong: Thanks Bye... Enthusiastic? Clear? • Are you flustered? Somber? Hard to understand? • Are you brusque? Rude? Ambiguous in your replies? G GOOF-PROOF RULE OF THUMB G You can have terrific qualifications, but if you are a poor communicator or unfriendly, you automatically lower your chances for being hired G Goof-Proof Your Dialogue Wrong: Yeah, I can come in sometime next week, I guess Wrong: Who? Oh, right The marketing job... the interview for tomorrow evening or any time the following day S t a r t i n g O ff o n t h e Wro n g F o o t G GOOF-PROOF RULE OF THUMB G Remain in control of the scheduling, while maintaining a calm and polite demeanor and a clear communication style Avoid slang and informality G Goof-Proof Your Dialogue Wrong: Wow! Thanks for calling me, Ms Hanson! I can come in this afternoon! Wrong: Um, gee,... seven Goof-Proof Rules, you will prepare yourself to impress even the most scrutinizing of interviewers, and give yourself the peace of mind to concentrate on what’s really important—your talents B e i n g U n p re p a re d RULE #5: Research the Company Always research the company that has called you in for an interview, even if you think you know everything about them—even if your Dad works there G GOOF-PROOF. .. N T E RV I E W S G GOOF-PROOF RULE OF THUMB G Never wait until the night before an interview to research the company What if you assumed you could find everything on their website and the website is “down” or nonexistent? You will be more comfortable and confident in the days leading up to your interview if you have taken the time to carefully and thoroughly research the company G GOOF-PROOF CHECKLIST . career path. Ready to goof-proof your interviews? Good. Then let’s get started.