Job Interview Tips
Interviews are one of the most common techniques used for employee selection in organizations. In order to make a good impression at your next job interview, here are some helpful tips that will get you prepared and ready.
1. Do Research on the Employer and the Job Vacancy
You will most probably be asked some questions about the company, so make sure you have done your homework on things like their history, last year's profits, and latest product launches. Success in job interviews starts with a solid foundation of knowledge on the job-seeker's part. You should read the job description and understand its requirements of the job. The more research you conduct about the job and the company, the more you'll understand the employer, and the better you'll be able to answer the interview questions.
2. Dress Well
Appearances matter. Make sure you wear a formal outfit like a suit. Your shoes should be polished, your clothes fit correctly, and your accessories are suitable for a job interview. Dressing one level above the job you're applying for shows a desire to succeed. Remember that it's always better to be overdressed than under -- and to wear clothing that fits and is clean and pressed. Try not to smoke or eat right before the interview -- and if possible, brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
3. Arrive Early & Stay Calm
Good preparation is the key to staying in control. Plan your route, allowing extra time for any unexpected delays and get everything you need to take with you ready the night before. Try to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled interview to complete additional paperwork and allow yourself time to get settled. Remember to speak clearly, smile and remember that your interviewers are just normal people.
4. Make Good First Impressions
Start your interview with warm greetings to everyone you meet - from parking attendant or receptionist to the hiring manager. Employers often are curious how job applicants treat staff members -- and your job offer could easily be derailed if you are rude or arrogant to any of the staff.
First impression of you is created in the first seconds when you greet your interviewers. First impressions can make or break an interview. You can make a strong first impression by dressing well, arriving early, and when greeting your interviewer. Stand, smile, make eye contact, and offer a firm (neither limp and nor bone-crushing) handshake.
5. Be Honest
Some candidates have the impression that a good technique is to dance around difficult interview questions. "If you don't have a skill, just state it. Don't try to cover it up by talking and giving examples that aren't relevant. You are much better off saying you don't have that skill but perhaps you do have some related skills, and you' re happy to tell them about that if they like."
6. Body Language & Bad Habits
Detrimental forms of body language can ruin your chances of getting the job such as: slouching, looking off in the distance, playing with pen, fidgeting in chair, brushing back hair, touching face, chewing gum, mumbling.
7. Thank your Interviewer(s) in Person, or by Email
As you have already seen from previous tips, common courtesy and politeness go far in interviewing; therefore, the importance of thanking each person who interviews you should come as no surprise. Start the process while at the interview, thanking each person who interviewed you. Writing thank-you emails and notes shortly after the interview will not get you the job offer, but doing so will certainly give you an edge over any of the other finalists who did not bother to send thank-you.