On Monday I gave you some pointers on what NOT to write in your resume. If you are indeed successful and are on to round two, the interview, there are some big don’ts you should keep in mind when meeting face to face with your potential boss.

Apparently there are so many clueless people when it comes to the job application process because the Internet is filled with lists of funny things that have happened during this time.
On the CNN website, employers submitted weird things that have been said to them during interviews. Of course, again, I’ve picked out my favourites:

“I’ve never heard such a stupid question.”

“I would be a great asset to the events team because I party all the time.”

“I get angry easily and I went to jail for domestic violence. But I won’t get mad at you.” (On his weaknesses)

“Wow – I’m not used to wearing dress shoes! My feet are killing me. Can I show you these bloody blisters?”

Here we go again. The resume may have been the bait but the interview reels your future employer in. Here are some golden “Do Not” rules that will help you survive the interview:

*  Do NOT dress inappropriately. Unless your employer tells you that the interview is casual, dress business casual. One of the instances mentioned on the site involved a man who borrowed a suit that was too big and when he stood up, his pants fell down. At least wear a belt.

*  Do NOT disrespect your interviewer. Being sarcastic or insulting their question choice will not transform you into a desirable candidate. Treat every question as if it were as important as the last.

*  Do NOT give too much information. Though honesty is appreciated, maybe it’s a good idea to hide the fact that you’re hungover during the interview. What you need to tell the interviewer is what is appropriate to the job and the position you are applying for and not your life story as fascinating as it probably is.

*   When an employer asks what your weaknesses are, they are NOT looking for tragic flaws so don’t tell them that you have a weak knee that hurts when you go jogging or that you’re terrified of clowns. They don’t really care. They want to know what you have had trouble with at work in the past that you are actively trying to work on right now. It needs to be something that you can put a positive spin on. Example: “I take on too much responsibility sometimes and the workload becomes unbearable. I’m learning to accept what I can handle and ask others for help.”

I receieved some great comments last time so please keep them coming this time around. I want to hear about all of your crazy interview experiences, or your life story. You decide.

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This entry was posted on Friday, July 24th, 2009 at 1:00 pm and is filed under Jobs, Living. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Tags: CNN, Employment, Interview, resume, Romi Levine, Screw You Recession, unemployment