Are you feeling stressed because of the upcoming interview? Here is a list of practical tips you need to know in order to leave a terrific impression and be the one who’s going to get that dream job. Learn how to impress and gain confidence during this process.
1. Study your resume and know everything on it
Any work experience or skills you have listed on your resume are fair game to talk about during the interview. Your resume is all the interviewer has to go by in order to get to know you. They may pick things out from it and ask you to elaborate. Even though you may have a previous job listed that was many years ago, the interviewer may ask you to explain what you did at that job and your are responsible for providing an answer. This is one step you absolutely won’t want to skip on how to prepare for a job interview.
2. Research the company
Before you go on a job interview, it’s important to find out as much as you can about the company. Company research is a critical part of interview preparation. It will help you prepare to answer the interview questions. You will also be able to find out whether the company and the company culture are a good fit for you. Take some time, in advance, to discover as much information as you can about the company.
3. Practice good etiquette
Proper interview etiquette is important. Remember to greet the receptionist, your interviewer, and everyone else you meet politely, pleasantly, and enthusiastically. During the interview watch your body language. Shake hands firmly and make eye contact as you articulate your points. Relax and lean forward a little towards the interviewer so you appear interested and engaged. Don’t lean back or slump in your chair. You will look too casual and relaxed. Keep your feet on the floor and your back against the lower back of the chair. Pay attention, be attentive and look interested. The more positive an impression you make, the better you’ll do during the job interview.
4. Listen and ask questions
During a job interview, listening is just as important as answering questions. If you’re not paying attention, you’re not going to be able to give a good response. It’s important to listen to the interviewer, to pay attention, and to take time, if you need it, to compose an appropriate answer. Also, be ready to engage the interviewer. You want there to be a give and take type of conversation, so you’re building a relationship with the interviewer rather than just providing rote responses to questions.
5. Other important ways to make a good impression:
Positivity – Be well-mannered with any staff you meet before or after the interview and, if you’re feeling particularly nervous, remind yourself that the very worst thing that could happen is you simply not getting the job. During the interview, avoid talking about any personal problems unless completely necessary, and never badmouth your previous employers.
Clarity – Answer all questions clearly and concisely, evidencing your most relevant skills, experiences and achievements. It’s perfectly acceptable to pause before answering a difficult question to give yourself thinking time, or asking for clarification if, at first, you’re unsure what the question means. When answering, don’t speak too quickly.
Enthusiasm – It’s important that you allow your personality to shine throughout, as well as ask thought-provoking questions at appropriate moments. Both of these strategies will demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in the role and listening closely to the interviewer.
Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression, so you’ll want to do you best on preparing for your interview in advance. Good luck!