Acing the Interview
When you apply for a job, in most cases you will need to attend an interview. The interview can be stressful if you are not prepared, and most jobs are won or lost during this critical hiring practice. You’ll have only a short period of time to demonstrate that you are the person to hire. It may seem daunting, but there is a definite art to preparing for an interview. All too often, people – including your interviewer – have a tendency to judge a book by its cover. So, you’ll have about 30 seconds to make a good first impression at your interview.
Keep in mind…you never get a second chance to make a good first impression.
Being nervous is quite normal and expected in an interview setting. To calm your nerves, your best bet is preparation…
- learn as much as you can about the job and the company before arriving
- know the reasons why the employer would benefit from hiring you
- prepare questions that you think the employer might ask you – practice answering these questions
- know the location and time of the interview and arrive 10 minutes early
- think of some questions you can ask to show further interest in the employer’s business
- Don’t be surprised if your interviewer takes notes. You should also bring a pen and paper so that you can jot down key points.
Surviving the Process
What should you do during the interview? Be honest, calm, polite, concise, interested and emphasize all your positive points. Be sensitive to your interviewer’s nonverbal cues and respond appropriately. If you don’t understand a question, politely ask for clarification and always be truthful in your answers. Be prepared for questions relating to your resume, your education, past employment, and your career goals. Once the interview is complete, thank the interviewer for their time and be sure to ask for a business card.
After the interview, it is courteous to follow up with a thank you letter or e-mail expressing your gratitude for their time and restating your interest in the position.
Tips for successful interviews…
- dress more formally than you would normally for the job
- arrive 10 minutes early – review
- bring extra copies of your resume – minimum of 2
- introduce yourself first – don’t wait
- be ready to shake hands – do it firmly
- show your energy and enthusiasm for the job
- listen closely to the interviewer
- make eye contact – demonstrates confidence and honesty
- answer all questions carefully and honestly – think before you answer
If you don’t get the job…
- don’t give up – finding a job can take time…
- try not to feel dejected – stay focused
- send a thank you letter anyway – there may be other jobs
- review your cover letter, resume and interview techniques
- ask the employer what you could have done better
Don’t try too hard to impress the interviewer. Just relax and be yourself.