Interview Tips to Help You Land the Job
You got the Interview Now What
Interviewing for a new job can make us want to crumble.
Whether you are just entering the workforce or you are changing careers an interview is enough to cause anyone stress.
I have worked in Human Resources for the past ten years and would like to share some of the tips I have with you.
8 Tips to Nail the Interview
1. Introduction
When you arrive at the interview you will usually be greeted by the receptionist. Introduce yourself by full name and who you are there to see.
The interviewer will often ask the receptionist of their first impression of you. How you treat the staff that cannot do anything for you is very important. Make sure you are polite.
When you are brought back for the interview or the interviewer comes out to meet you. You should always stand and offer a firm handshake, even if they don’t extend their hand first. Introduce yourself by your full name and speak with confidence.
2. Be on Time
It's important to arrive five to ten minutes early for your interview.
The day before do a practice run. This way you will be familiar with where to park and how long it will take to get there.
3.Research the company
Take a few minutes and Google the company you're interviewing with. Familiarize yourself with what they do and what they stand for. This will help you when and if they ask:
Why do you think you will be a good fit within or organization?
This will also benefit you when they ask if you have any questions. One of your questions can reference an achievement or program on their website. Having knowledge of the company will show that you cared enough and took interest in their business.
4.Dress Appropriately
The interview outfit should be chosen ahead of time. It should portray the best image of you.
Keep it simple but polished and don’t over do it you want to feel comfortable.
It’s important to make sure your hair is neat and your clothing is free from wrinkles.
5. Practice Interview Questions
There are frequent questions that all interviewers will ask you.
- What is your best quality?
- Where do you see yourself in the future?
- What is your greatest weakness?
- Tell me about yourself?
- What is the salary range you are looking for?
If your not prepared these questions may seem challenging to answer on the spot. Practice answers you will give for commonly asked questions.
Also, make sure you have questions to ask the interviewer. Choose at least 2-3 that will show you are interested in what they have to say and offer.
6. Be Prepared
Its always suggested that you bring an extra copy of your resume with you. This will be helpful if there were any changes or if you need to reference it (which I do not recommend).
Also, bring along any personal and professional reference letters you have along with there contact information.
- Resume Tips: The Do's and Don'ts
Tips to help you write the resume that will help you land an interview. From things you will want to include to information you really should keep off of it.
7. Carry Yourself with Confidence
You are selling yourself and there is no better way to do this than with confidence.
- Be confident in your answers.
- Maintain eye contact only glancing away long enough so it is not awkward.
- Walk with your shoulders back.
- Sit up Straight in the Chair.
- Do not bite your lip, look at your phone or adjust your clothing.
- Make points of your Accomplishments in the Field.
If you are questioning your abilities so will they. When a possible candidate shows confidence in themselves and what they can bring to the company it stands out.
8. Interview is Ending
This is your last opportunity to leave an impression.
Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration. Express how you hope to hear from them soon and firmly shake their hand. While leaving the building thank the receptionist as well.
Take Note
After the interview give yourself a review of your performance.
Could you have answered certain questions better?
Did you give too much personal information?
Did you pause or look away to often?
Keeping a list of the skills and questions you can improve on, will help you in the long run and prepare you for future interviews.
In order to make sure you have a successful interview you must put forth the effort. Your interview skills will get better the more you practice common questions and answers.
Best of luck in your job search!
