Interview Tips for those Seeking Jobs
After sending your resume or curriculum vitae to various companies offering jobs and you start receiving calls for interviews, it may be the time when you begin asking yourself questions like, why did I fail on that other interview, what did I do wrong or what needs to be rectified. The following tips will keep you knowledgeable and offer you the skills you need to not make previous mistakes that you made on previous interviews;
Research – you should get information about your possible future employer, the company and the job itself. You need to be in the know so as not to be taken by surprise when the interviewer asks you questions relating to the company. It is important to also know the requirements for the job and compare these with your qualifications and experience. This research will not only help you to answer questions well but it will also guide you in asking appropriate questions. It will also help you to understand the company because of their background information. It is always wise to be informed. During this preparation stage also remember to get copies of your resume, samples of your work and a notepad and pen to bring to your interview.
Review common interview questions and prepare responses – practicing will train your mind to give precise answers to the commonly asked interview questions. It is possible to ask the hiring manager if the interview will be conducted by a group or just one other person, ask. This will help you to anticipate the questions that you are likely to be asked and prepare answers that are focused and also bring out your accomplishments that are relevant to the job in question. This practicing will help you to formulate talking points and eliminate all that is irrelevant.
Dressing and Grooming – be clean, comb your hair, bathe, brush your teeth and dress professionally. If during your research you happened to find out what the company’s dress code is, you should found an outfit that matches the same. Also, make sure your clothes are not crumpled or with food stains. Your outlook says a lot about you and it is important to make a good impression on your interviewer.
Keeping Time – since time waits for no man, make sure you arrive a few minutes before the time scheduled for the interview. It will be enough time for you to compose yourself, get familiar with the surroundings and to complete any incomplete paperwork. It will also give you time to shut your phone; throw your gum if you were chewing any.
First Impressions – first impressions matter a lot, especially during interviews. Remember to be polite to anyone you meet in the company and in the interview. Show that you are confident by standing and sitting straight. Be audible when answering questions. The way you prepare may affect the impressions you make. For example, if you did not prepare the day before and you had to prepare right before the interview, and you happen to forget your resume or to brush your hair or your collar is inside, it may seem to the interviewer that you are irresponsible.
