While it is sometimes obvious why you didn’t get a position, like seriously botching a question or arriving late to the meeting, certain small mistakes could also be costing you during the temp job interview. First impressions are made up of more than just the responses you provide when speaking with the hiring manager, making it critical that you understand how particular actions can hurt your chances.
If you are struggling to land a position, here are a few things that might be going wrong during your temp job interview.
Toting in a Bunch of Stuff
Even though a candidate isn’t necessarily expected to arrive at an interview without any belongings in tow, some items may result in you making a bad impression on the hiring manager. Anything from carrying in multiple bags to bringing along sweating beverages that leave rings on the conference room table can hurt your chances of being selected.
Ideally, you should limit yourself to no more than one reasonably sized bag or portfolio, giving you a method for safely transporting copies of your resume and references, and nothing else. If you have to bring a beverage, make it a small water bottle and make sure that the contents are at room temperature (to avoid the above-mentioned sweating). Anything beyond that is likely excessive, so consider leaving it behind unless you are explicitly asked to bring it.
Bold or Unfamiliar Attire
Often, people select their clothing as a form of personal expression. While having a sense of style isn’t inherently a bad thing, you should err on the side of conservative when you are going in for an interview.
Additionally, you need to pick appropriate clothes that still leave you feeling comfortable. Otherwise, you may focus on how you physically feel instead of on the hiring manager’s questions. Try to find attire that is suitably professional, based on the role, but doesn’t distract you from the task at hand.
Forgetting the Basics
Along with your resume, you need to bring a variety of basic items with you. For example, having your ID available is a necessity, particularly if you need to meet with security before being allowed to enter the building. Having your wallet is also a must, as well as access to suitable transportation (including your car keys) so you can be sure that you’ll arrive on time.
Other helpful items are a small notepad and a pen. If the hiring manager requests that you bring specific things, such as a portfolio of your work, make sure these are prepared in advance and that you remember them before heading to the interview. In most cases, these items can either be kept on your person or in a small, professional bag or briefcase.
Ultimately, you need to make the best first impression possible if you want to land the job, and the tips above can help you do just that.
If you are looking for a new temp position, the professionals at TempStaff can connect you with leading opportunities in the area. Contact us to see how our services can benefit your temp job interview and your career today.
