You’ve just landed an interview for the job of your dreams but that’s only the beginning. Now comes the hard part, nailing the job interview. Maybe you don’t have a lot of experience in this situation or perhaps you just want to be more prepared, either way you’ve come to the right place. Below you will find five of the most vital tips you need to follow to stay prepped for judgement day.
#1 Research The Company
Before you can sell yourself you need to understand your audience. This is why it’s essential to know the company behind the offer. Most people spend hours researching the requirements of a role yet fall short when asked simple questions about the business. Often interviewers will ask leading questions regarding how you heard about them or why you want to work for them. Here’s where knowing your stuff can make an instant good impression. Don’t answer with generic statements about the amazing opportunity they are offering. Instead focus on specifics. Not only will this show you care about the business but it allows you to gain a greater understanding of what they want from you. What is their vision? Apply it to your own skills to demonstrate how you intend to fit in. Understanding of the company’s culture will demonstrate to those hiring you why you’re a perfect fit for their team, not just the role.
#2 Dress The Part
Here planning ahead is key! The night before the interview ensure everything you are going to wear is clean, ironed and hanging up ready to put on in the morning. The job itself dictates how formal the attire needs to be. Generally a corporate position requires business attire such as a crisp white shirt with black trousers. Conversely part time sales assistant roles might indicate a more casual dress code. But as the guidelines usually go – don’t over accessorise, keep it modest and stay comfortable.
#3 Know Your Interview Etiquette
Manners are everything when making a first impression. Before starting the interview, always remember to greet reception staff and everyone else you meet while waiting to be called in. Appearing polite and enthusiastic is important. When entering the room, make eye contact with the interviewer and firmly shake their hand. Continue to make eye contact when expressing important points. Ensure your body language is open yet professional. Pay close attention to what they’re saying, nodding at times to demonstrate your interest. If you present yourself as a positive and assertive person the rest of the interview will go smoothly.
#4 Essential Items
Once again, this depends on the role you’re applying for. If you’re in a creative field like photography or graphic design, it’s crucial you bring a portfolio of your best work. This will highlight your skills and is often expected even if the interviewer hasn’t explicitly asked for it. Other must haves (regardless of your industry) include your resume, a list of references and any letters of reference. It could also be helpful to bring a small notepad and pen to jot down any information like times or addresses that may arise. Make sure your phone is turned off and don’t arrive with a coffee in hand or chewing gum.
#5 Ask Questions
Most interviewers wrap up by asking you if you have any questions for them. Take this opportunity to show you’ve been listening to what they’ve been saying. Don’t respond with a list of generic questions that are irrelevant to the discussion you just had. Before arrival, try to think of unique and engaging question they won’t have heard from the other applicants. Once you have heard what they have to say, try to determine what questions fit the conversation best and shape what you’ve prepared to fit. The goal is to ask one or two well thought out questions that spark engagement from the interviewer. Try to avoid asking questions that can be responded to in just a few words.
Image source: NBCUniversal Television