Did you know that you learned some important things from your mother about interviewing? You did.
And, some of them are more valuable than they might appear...
Be polite.
Watch your manners.
Say "please and thank you.
" Be gracious.
Always be courteous to everyone you meet.
And, that includes the receptionist at the front desk.
Smile at her / him.
You can blow your chances of a job offer if you are rude or even annoyed with the receptionist.
Or the guy in the mailroom.
Or the president.
Because you might not know who's president.
Here's a true story: there was a man, a trim, humble man, who became the president of one of the largest banking institutions in the world.
He was slight and unassuming.
One day, he was to address an officers' meeting, and was standing in the room, near the coatroom.
A new hire, a rather dashing and handsome man, came up to the president, threw his coat at him, and demanded that he hang it up for him.
The president just took the coat, smiled politely, and nodded.
Imagine the face of the new hire when the president walked to the front of the room to open the meeting...
Don't assume.
Treat everyone the same.
You never know who is sitting at the front desk or walking down the hall or speaking to you in the restroom.
You just never know.
Always keep your poise.
No matter what.
Behave like a guest.
Don't sit unless you've been offered a seat.
Don't drink unless your host is drinking too.
Don't put your elbows on the table.
Sit up in your chair.
Watch your posture.
Shake hands firmly, smile easily, look everyone in the eye.
Stand tall.
Walk as if you are somebody...
because you are.
When you are done, say thank you.
Or better yet, send a note.
Best of all, send a handwritten note.
Silly? Maybe.
But, I invite you to put these tips to good use.
Mom would be proud.