7 Easy Steps to Enhance Your Interviewing Skills

With so many technological advances in the recruitment process the "back-to-basics" rule still applies when it comes to getting hired for a job. The interview!

When you attend an interview, it all boils down to how you present yourself.

 So you've shared your resume to potential employers through various channels, job boards, messaging apps and emails and you've actually determined the right job to apply for. If you're lucky and the next step is the interview.

 Your first impression starts at your response to the interview request either via phone or email and not knowing anything about the role you've applied for and admitting you spam applied doesn't go down well.

In management roles, not knowing anything about a company that you're looking to nurture your career also doesn't bode well.

So you arrange your interview and you both find a suitable date.

Lastly, you appear for the interview.

You have to be on time and expect a delay. If you're interview is going great the time will fly by and timing won't matter. I would rather it go over by 10 mins to make sure I get enough information to make an informed decision. This will mean by next interviews will be delayed.

 As well as being on time, you need to be dressed to impress.

Suit unless otherwise requested!

So here's 7 simple actions on how you can enhance your interview abilities:

1.) Get ready for the interview.

First impressions are paramount. From dressing appropriately, grooming and acting confident.

Obviously. TURN OFF YOUR PHONE!

2.) Research the Role, Company and Marketplace.

 Use all your resources to make sure that you know the essentials about the company. When asked what you understand about the business that you are applying for, you don't want to be caught out. If you're risking your career on a move you know nothing about, who knows what you'll risk when in the role.

Ensure that you prepared responses to a few fundamental questions but make sure you don't sound scripted. When you rehearse what you will be stating word for word, this sounds untrue and the right question can throw off an interview. Make sure you have the fundamentals and can think on your feet.

3.) Be cool.

Step forward so that you are now seated and the interview will start. Make a great impression by preserving eye contact, giving the job interviewer a firm handshake, a friendly smile and a polite welcoming. Sit when you are asked to do so and do not forget to thank the recruiter for requiring time off of his or her hectic schedule to interview you.

 Make sure to begin on a positive note and set the correct expectations.

 4.) Do not sell yourself short.

In the course of the interview, answer the questions briefly and properly. The key is to be truthful.

 Ensure that as a potential future employee, you make sure the future employer knows what you can do for the company, not the other way around.

DO NOT TALK DOWN PREVIOUS EMPLOYERS!

Experience isn't always everything. I find that personality can trump experience on particular roles. There are certain traits that you can teach and some personality types your can't change. What you lack in experience, make up for in confidence and passion to learn.

Put yourself in the company's shoes. Ask yourself, if I were on the other side of this desk, what qualities should I search for in a potential employee? Would I benefit if they work for me and how would they contribute to the development of the company?

 Do not hesitate to sell yourself however do not be overconfident. Just ensure you respect yourself and your abilities.

 5.) Ask questions.

Qualify the company, you need to make sure they are the right fit for your career. If you cannot get a word in edgeways, do they really want to know about you? As a an interviewer make sure you provide opportunities for questions and as an interviewee, take that opportunity by the horns. They are opening themselves up to you so go for it and ask anything. Show them it isn't just a job, it's your next job!

6.) Wrap it up.

As you near the end of the interview, ensure that bases are covered. Now is not the time to go over and even ask about the income and the advantages that you will receive.

Wrap things up by summarising your strengths and mentioning your favorable characteristics. Finally, as you end the interview, ensure to thank the interviewer again for his/her time, therefore leaving a lasting impression.

If you'd like to close the interviewer and feel that you're in a strong position and the feeling is right go for it. It doesn't have to be pushy. Ask them what they thought of your interview, if there's anything stopping them making you an offer and a final pitch.

 7.) Follow Up.

Send out that critical thank you note after the interview. Thank the interviewer for the time that they took with you and for offering you that chance. Make certain that you understand who to call for follow-up of the results.

A great deal of research study has actually been made about the whole procedure. Here is a brief review:

•  Initially, you make a schedule for the interview.
• You attend and are seen by the interviewee.
• The interview itself then takes place.
• Next is the closing, then you follow-up with a thank-you-note.
• You eventually get accepted and you negotiate the offer and terms including contract signing.

Communication is a large part of an interview process. If you're nervous or struggling, practice. I'm sure there will be a lot of people willing to help you prepare so just ask.

Once the interviewer is there, or as soon as you go to be interviewed, your look will be the very first thing to make the impact. Know where the interview will be held and be there with sufficient time to prepare yourself prior to the scheduled interview.

But most of all enjoy yourself. Interviewing should be fun and you should use it as an opportunity to find out more about your future employer and your future career.