Interview Advice
In a competitive job market, it is essential to have the right pre-interview and interview skills. Candidates who know the appropriate interview techniques will have a better chance of standing out from the crowd. Some tips on interview techniques:
Be Prepared
The Internet is a valuable source of information for job seekers about prospective employers. You should prepare yourself with knowledge about the company to which you are applying. Knowing what the company does and how will be an asset at the interview.
Dress Appropriately
Most employers will expect you to arrive for an interview appropriately attired and well groomed. Even if you know that the people employed by the business wear casual clothing to work, it is an opportunity for you to show your enthusiasm for the position by presenting a businesslike appearance. In fact, dressing too casually or flamboyantly can ruin your chances. The safest choice for any interview is a conservative colour like navy, grey or black.
Arrive Early
Nothing makes a worse impression than when you arrive late. It should go without saying but get to the place the interview is being conducted early. There is also such a thing as too early. An appropriate arrival time is 5 – 10 minutes before the interview is scheduled.
Dress Rehearsal
You would not make a speech at a wedding without planning what you are going to say, yet people walk into job interviews every day assuming that brilliant words will leap from their lips. Do not assume. Make a list of the questions you would ask if you were interviewing someone for the job then rehearse your best possible answers.
Know Your Own Strengths
Researching the company is only half the pre-interview assignment. You have to research yourself as well. “You must know your own background so thoroughly that you are prepared to answer any question about it without hesitation and in enough detail to satisfy the interview,” Arthur Pell says in How To Sell Yourself On An Interview (Monarch Press, 1982). “Hesitation, being vague on certain points or groping for the proper words destroys the effect you are trying to create.” Make a list of 10 work-related things you do well or know a lot about. Then, during your interview rehearsal, come up with appropriate ways to bring them up.
Ask Questions
When the interviewer asks, “What questions do you have?” Have some pre-prepared as this may help you show your enthusiasm and interest in the position. Having no questions to ask may make you look uninterested, unimaginative or both. You can however spoil this opportunity if you ask too many questions – be realistic.
Body Language
It is all well and good being nicely presented with new clothes, a haircut, shiny shoes etc but if your body language does not say to the person interviewing, “I really want this job” then there is a possibility that someone else may get that message across. Aside from the trying not to cross your arms, making sure you sit up straight. Also, when you meet someone, make sure you shake hands with a firm handshake. Not too hard that you will crush the person’s hand and not too soft. Practice prior to the interview and get feedback.
Thank You
After your interview has finished, ensure you thank the people doing the interview for their time and if they need any further information to let you know. By now you should have made a mental note of their names, make sure you use it when thanking them. Also, if there is a receptionist, ensure on the way out you also thank that person. The receptionist is considered an integral person in many organisations and their opinion (from their first impression of you) may sway the decision.
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