Q&A for How to Act at a Job Interview

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I don't know the company culture — what should I wear to my job interview?

Devin Jones
Career Coach
Devin Jones is the creator of “The Soul Career," an online career incubator for women. She is certified in the CliftonStrengths assessment and works with women to clarify their purpose and create meaningful careers. Devin received her BA from Stanford University in 2013.

Devin Jones

Career Coach

Expert Answer

I take Audrey Hepburn's advice. She says it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. I don't think anyone will judge you if you're overdressed, but if you're underdressed that's not going to look great. So I always tell students just go business professional. When in doubt go business professional.

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Question

Why do I have to be so proper?

Community Answer

Sometimes, what you see as "friendly" and "casual" can be insulting to other people. Being formal shows respect to the person who may be paying you, and it also shows that you will actually take your job seriously.

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Question

Is it appropriate to bring a small bottle of water to an interview?

Community Answer

Yes. Having water with you is a great way to keep your throat from getting dry, or to allow you a moment to collect your thoughts on a particularly tricky question.

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Question

How do I impress the interviewer with body language?

Community Answer

Look confident, appropriately project your voice, and stand/sit up straight.

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How do I answer an unexpected question with no knowledge on it?

Community Answer

If you know even the slightest bit about the question at hand, attempt to answer it. If you don't know anything about it, be honest. An employer would rather have an honest employee than one who tries to wiggle his or her way through a question.

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Question

What if i don't have a suit?

Community Answer

Some slacks and a dress shirt with a tie would work well for interviewing for most positions.

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What if I'm a little rusty at my trade?

Community Answer

Study and prepare for the interview more, and you won't be as rusty.

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What if I want to intimidate the interviewer and/or seem powerful?

Community Answer

Use "I" a lot, and try to sit higher than them to give a sense of superiority.

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What should I do if I made a mistake on the written essay for my interview?

Community Answer

If you’re that nervous, write a rough draft before you start. If you are also very nervous, you could bring an erasable pen as well. The best thing to do is to prevent it instead of making that mistake. If you already have, there’s not much you can do.

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