Step Five: Go for an Interview

Some landlords and housing providers may want to interview you as part of the application process. Here are some tips on how to make your interview a positive experience:

Shower and wear clean clothes
The first impression that you make on a housing provider is very important and proper hygiene can make a big difference. Make sure that you shower the day of your appointment. If the place that you are currently staying in does not have shower facilities, go to a drop-in centre as most of these places have showers that you can use (or will be able to tell you where to go to find one). Clean and neat clothes are also important for making a good first impression. If you don't have any, go to a local Goodwill or thrift shop to pick some up.

Be on time
Being on time for your appointment is also extremely important - it shows the housing provider that you are reliable and seriously interested in the housing. Try to arrive about 5 - 10 minutes early. If your appointment is early in the morning, make sure you set an alarm or ask someone you trust to wake you up. If you need to take public transit, plan out your route the day before and make sure you leave enough time for transfers or delays. 

Be friendly and make eye contact
Being friendly to the housing provider can definitely impact your chances of receiving the housing.  You don't want to go overboard though, just be pleasant and polite. Making eye contact with the interviewer is also important and can improve your chances of being seen as reliable and interested. 

Answer questions truthfully
Housing providers may ask you some questions about yourself including information about your past. Usually it is best to answer these questions as truthfully as possible as it may benefit you in the long run. If, however, the questions seem too personal or make you feel uncomfortable, you do not have to answer them. Just tell the housing provider that you would prefer not to discuss that issue with them.  Also, don't forget to take some time to ask questions yourself. Remember, this could be your home for quite awhile and you want to make sure that it has everything that you need.

Bring someone with you
Housing interviews can be stressful, so you may want to bring a worker or someone you trust with you. This may calm your nerves a bit, and this person can also help to answer and ask questions.

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