When I go to a new restaurant, I’m observing and judging from the time I enter the property. I’m not likely to see the kitchen, of course. So I’m watching for other signs of the level of care, cleanliness, and pride in the business. Is there trash outside? Are letters missing from the sign? Are the tables clean? What about the floor under the tables? And what about the bathroom?
Likewise, when an applicant goes to an interview with a company, he/she is observing and judging from the time he/she arrives at the property. It may or may not be an issue of cleanliness here! But you can watch for what the physical space, the desktops, and the staff interaction signal about the culture of this business.
From the company’s perspective, I guarantee that your interview starts when you arrive on the property and doesn’t end until you leave it. It’s not limited to the duration of your appointment! It matters whether you leave your trash on the sidewalk or in the trash receptacle. It matters whether you are terse or courteous to the security guard. And it definitely matters whether you are abrupt or polite with the receptionist! In fact, on your way out the door, make it a point to thank each of those “gatekeepers,” if possible.
Since your interview lasts the entire time you’re on the property, I also recommend the following. 1) Remove chewing gum from your mouth while you’re still in your vehicle. 2) Leave your coffee cup in your vehicle or in the trash. 3) Turn off your cell phone before entering the building. 4) Use any waiting time to review your notes and “center” yourself, NOT to look at employment classifieds in their newspapers.
One more step to successful searching!
