Going for a job interview is a difficult and often nerve-racking process. When people hear the word interview, they cringe and worry about what they are going to say or how they are supposed to dress.
Practice Makes Perfect
It never hurts to prepare for something as life-altering as an interview. There are a few things that should be completed prior to "showtime." The cliché that "practice makes perfect" is completely valid in relation to a job interview. Have your friends help you prepare by hosting mock interviews to get a feel for the types of questions the employer may present to you in an interview.
In addition to practicing how you are going to act during this time, you should research the company with which you will be dealing. Check their social media resources to see what they are doing; current events and significant milestones are incredibly relevant topics to bring up to an interviewer. They are the kinds of things that will make you stand out and appear invested in the company's affairs.
Dress for Success
Dress appropriately for the position for which you are applying. No one is going to take you seriously if you show up looking unprofessional; this appearance will only suggest that you are unfit for the position. Wear the appropriate attire, and you will have a better chance of making a great impression!
Why Things Go Wrong
Some common mistakes are made during interviews, even if a well qualified candidate committed any of these errors they could still be rejected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- A Sloppy appearance or inappropriate dress: As discussed previously, no benefit will come to you if you do not adhere to the proper dress code.
- Lack of enthusiasm: This can be a deal breaker during an interview. If the recruiter does not believe that you have a vested interest in the company and passion for the field, they will have to select someone more suited.
- Tardiness: Never be late to any business related event. This is incredibly rude and tarnishes your image. This process should be viewed as a way to make a good impression on someone, lateness carries a bad connotation.
- Incomplete or "Shady" Resume: Never lie on a resume, and make sure that you have taken the time to fully update and optimize the most current version using keywords and action verbs. After you apply these job interview help tips, view this page for more information about how to write a resume.
Even though interviews can be nerve-racking, try your best to stay calm and relaxed.
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Articulation is key to a successful interview as most people base others' intelligence and education on how well they can present themselves through speech.
- Make frequent eye contact. You need to demonstrate that you are confident and can conduct a professional conversation in an assured manner.
- Be polite and positive. No one wants to deal with a rude or negative person; people gravitate toward positive energy and are more willing to hire a zealous candidate.
- Come prepared to answer questions about both the company as well as yourself and how you can benefit the company.
After the meeting has concluded, don't leave on an awkward note! Know exactly how to conclude your discussion and impress your potential future employer.
- Thank the hiring manager with a firm handshake immediately after the meeting.
- Ask them for one of their business cards, so that you have their contact information in case you need to contact them.
- Within a day, send a thank you letter directly to the representative who took their time to help you through this progression. This gesture will follow proper business etiquette and demonstrate your appreciation.
