Job interview
Succeeding in job interviews takes research, practice, and persistence. Remaining on top of the most current job interview tips and best practices is valuable. So is knowing what not to do. Recognizing some of the most common interviewing “don’ts” can help you present a favorable and honest picture of your skills and experience. This article focuses on the most important
Job Interview Tips
1. Conduct Research on the Employer, Hiring Manager, Job Opportunity. The biggest mistake applicants make in interviews is not knowing enough about the firm. Success in a job interview starts with a solid foundation of knowledge on the job-seeker’s part. You should understand the employer, the requirements of the job, and the background of the person (or people) interviewing you.Do some digging on the Web, tap members of your network for their insights and work with a recruiter who can offer additional information about the firm. The more research you conduct, the more you’ll understand the employer, and the better you’ll be able to answer interview questions.
2. Stay Calm and don’t let nerves undercut your communication skills. During the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Remember that your body language says as much about you as your answers to the questions. Proper preparation will allow you to exude confidence. Keep your responses to interview questions concise. When asked a question, take a deep breath, pause and collect your thoughts before you begin to speak. Avoid verbal crutches (e.g., “um,” “like,” “uh”) and refrain from making jokes or discussing controversial subjects. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention.
3. Review Common Interview Questions and Prepare Responses. Another key to interview success is preparing responses to expected interview questions. First, inquire as to the type of interview to expect (which you can do by asking your contact person at the organization). Your goal is composing detailed yet concise responses, focusing on specific examples and accomplishments. A good tool for remembering your responses is to put them into story form that you can tell in the interview. No need to memorize responses (in fact, it’s best not to), but at least develop talking points.
4. Don’t exaggerate your interest or qualifications. This is one of our most important job interview tips. While it’s necessary to express enthusiasm for the position, candidates who answer every question with upbeat eagerness may come across as insincere. Also avoid overstating your qualifications.
5. Dress for Success. Plan out a wardrobe that fits the organization and its culture, striving for the most professional appearance you can accomplish. Remember that it’s always better to be overdressed than under — and to wear clothing that fits and is clean and pressed. Keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Try not to smoke or eat right before the interview — and if possible, brush your teeth or use mouthwash.
6. Don’t be negative. Avoid disparaging comments regarding former employers, colleagues and companies. Also stay away from self-deprecating comments, which do not support a positive image or demonstrate competence.
7. Arrive on Time for the Interview — and Prepared for Success. There is no excuse for ever arriving late for an interview — other than some sort of disaster. Strive to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled interview to complete additional paperwork and allow yourself time to get settled. Arriving a bit early is also a chance to observe the dynamics of the workplace.
8. Be Authentic, Upbeat, Focused, Confident, Candid, and Concise. Once the interview starts, the key to success is the quality and delivery of your responses. Your goal should always be authenticity, responding truthfully to interview questions. At the same time, your goal is to get to the next step, so you’ll want to provide focused responses that showcase your skills, experience, and fit — with the job and the employer. Provide solid examples of solutions and accomplishments — but keep your responses short and to the point.
9. Show What You Know. Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for. Use examples from your research when answering questions.
