I often say that interviewing and choosing an employer is quite similar to choosing a companion. Interviewing is the professional world’s way of dating and getting to know each other. As in dating to find a companion, there are several basic rules while interviewing you should follow to ensure you respect all parties involved.
1) Don’t overinflate or exaggerate on your resume.
Facts are facts, and at some point you will have to prove, explain, or show how you were able to accomplish the things your resume states. You don’t want to “catfish” your potential employer with lies and tall tales.
2) Be on time (for everything).
Being on time for phone interviews, in-person interviews, and/or responsiveness to emails/messages is a way to show respect for the individuals you are communicating with. The quickest way to show someone you don’t value them or their organization is to be late. I had a little league coach who taught me at an early age, “if you aren’t 15 minutes early, you’re late.” That’s a philosophy that has kept with me to this day.
3) Be transparent.
There is nothing wrong with interviewing multiple companies. In fact, I recommend that individuals should strive for 3+ offers before deciding on an offer. However, be clear with the organizations you are considering that you are actively interviewing with other companies. Just as you are looking for your employer, the organization has a position they are looking to fill.
4) Accept and deny employment offers with gratitude.
It’s a long, arduous road for an employer to get all the way to extending an employment contract. If you have multiple offers, someone is bound to be disappointed. Go out of your way to thank each organization for the investment they wanted to make in you as an employee. You never know where your career will lead you, and it may just be at one of those companies you previously declined.
Bill Payson started working as a Senior Account Manager in the Physicians Division of Aureus Medical Group in August 2012. He was responsible for new client growth, current account management, and physician recruitment. Bill has since become a Regional Account Manager and serves as the team lead for the Physician Division. In his free time, Bill is busy taking care of his wife and twin sons, and also running and golfing when he gets the chance.