Bossy! Magazine Issue 4 March 2015 | Page 13

2. The Early Bird Can Be Too Early

The early bird gets the worm, but arriving more than a half hour before your scheduled interview is down right annoying. Recruiters often stack their interviews or book their schedules very tightly. Applicants that arrive early are usually stuck waiting until their scheduled time anyway. It's awkward and uncomfortable if you are not expected.

3. First impressions are not just about looks

Business appropriate is not just about the clothes you wear. Perfume that arrives to the interview before you do or hangs around long after you've gone in many cases is enough reason not to get a call back. Noisy jewelery like large earrings and clanking bracelets are distracting as well as bright colored or unkempt hair. Lastly, your shoes matter. They don't have to be Prada, just clean, something many job applicants over look. Applicants that take care of their personal appearance often are detail-oriented and organized, two character traits recruiters look for.

4. Know something about the employer

Don't arrive to an interview unprepared. Almost every employer has a web site explaining their history and what they are all about. Recruiters consider those who have done the research top candidates. Just a few clicks of a mouse and you will come across as knowledgeable. No recruiter appreciates a blank stare when they ask, "What do you know about our company?"

5. Leaving multiple messages can hurt you

There is a saying that a closed mouth doesn't get fed. Or, the squeaky wheel gets the oil. Well in this case, recruiters that receive incessant messages, whether email or voicemail will surely put your resume at the bottom of the pile. After leaving one message give it a week before leaving another. Try an email after two days. If you haven't heard back from the recruiter after two weeks, it is typically safe to say the employer has decided to continue looking or accepted another candidate.