Interview Help

Everyone feels nervous when going for a job interview, more so when you feel the job is really right for you. There are a number of different things to remember when preparing for an interview:

Background
Find out everything you can about the company, what they do, why they do it, and who they do it for. Use the internet to get information on the corporate personality; this should give you an insight into their hiring and firing process. Try and get some information on the person holding the interview and use it to your advantage.

First Impressions
It may sound ridiculous but, the first impression you make on the interviewer is usually the one that will stay with them after you leave. Make sure your clothes are pressed and clean and your shoes are clean and shiny. Do not wear an overpowering scent, something subtle and fresh is more suitable than a cologne or perfume that is likely to choke the interviewer. Do not sit in the lobby biting your nails or fidgeting, it is important to look relaxed and calm, make sure that you smile and casually greet anyone who makes distinctive eye contact with you. A firm handshake is important as well, you don’t want to tear their arm off but you do want to appear confident without seeming arrogant or overconfident.

Getting Started
When you are seated, sit up straight, do not slouch or slump in the chair, good posture when sitting can make you look alert and assertive. If you are offered a beverage try to opt for the easiest option, probably the best thing to ask for is a glass of water, rather than a tea or coffee.
It is a certainty that the interviewer has gone through their own preparation process. Let them do the talking to begin with, make eye contact, be responsive with nods and agreeing tones. It is perfectly acceptable to comment, however, try to keep it short until they indicate that it is your turn to speak. When that time comes, be conversational and confident. If there is something you would rather not discuss with the interviewer, for example the reasons for leaving your last position gently steer clear of it. If they persist, be gracious they are human too and have probably had their fair share of jobs that did not end on the best note. ‘There were conflicts of opinion’ ‘Me and my previous employer decided to part company’ or simply ‘I wanted to better myself in a more productive environment’ will be a sufficient enough answer for any interviewer. DO NOT bad mouth your previous employer or the company.

“…..Any questions?”
When the interviewer has finished they will almost definitely ask you if you have any questions, remember there is a fine line between being inquisitive and intrusive. Plan the questions you want to ask in advance. Good interview questions are short and precise and provoke responses to the same manner. Examples of good interview questions are as follows:
• How long has the company been in business?
• What is the average yearly turnover?
• How did the position you’re applying for become available?
Try not to bombard the interviewer with questions, you will really only want to ask 2-3, so make sure you choose them wisely.

Once the interview is over, wait for the interviewer to stand before you do, shake hands again and follow them out unless they gesture otherwise. You don’t want to seem too eager to leave.

The information above is only a guideline; the most important skill to take with you to an interview is reaction reading. Noting whether they are happy, relaxed, stressed or in a hurry and adapting to suit their mood will give you an advantage.