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F a l l 2 0 1 7 • S T U F F 1 1 I N T E R V I E W T I P S Talking badly about previous employers or manager. Your past employer or boss may very well be the reason you are looking for a job, but one of the worst mistakes you can make is talking bad about a previous employer. It can be a very dangerous slope and in the end, your negative comments may make you look bad. Keep your reasons for looking positive, future-focused, and about the opportunity at the new company! Put on a clean shirt! Appearance is a big part of the first impression. What you wear can give the interviewer an instant impression. Not every company expects a suit and tie, so do some research and try to figure out what the appropriate clothing would be. It never hurts to be over dressed. No matter what job you are going for, sweatpants are never acceptable. You don't want to appear careless, smell or look dirty in the interview. Not being professional. Sometimes people get way too comfortable when interviewing! One candidate was recently turned down for putting his legs up on the table and arms up behind his head. Another candidate was found lying on the couches in the lobby while waiting for the interviewer to arrive. When I said relax before, I didn't mean too relaxed! Sit up straight, be ready and attentive. Language is another key. Do not swear. Even a little slip could turn a manager away. Arriving late! Be on time. Leave with plenty of time to spare in case you hit traffic or get lost. Interviewers do not want to wait for you to arrive. When you are getting close, be very careful driving as you approach the parking lot. I once cut a car off to get into a parking lot for an interview. The hiring manager asked me what kind of car I drove and smiled when I told her. She was the one I had cut off! I did not get that job. Not sending a thank-you email. A thank you note is a great chance to stay front of mind and continue to leave a positive impression on the interview team. Email has taken over as the preferred way to send a thank you, so you can send it that night or next day. Interviewing is not easy! Take plenty of time to practice and prepare. For more advice, tips and help, follow DAVIS Companies' blog, "Off the Cuff." Tyler has been with DAVIS Companies for five years and is the recruiting manager of the engineering division. He went to Saint Michael's College in Vermont, where he played rugby. He spends the weekends hiking with his dog, kayaking the Charles, and grilling. FactOId 51,403 Number of manufacturing employees in Hartford County in 2016, an increase from both 2014 and 2015