Interview Tips
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A JOB interview can be a nerve-wracking experience if you are not prepared and lack self-confidence.
We present a few tips that will help you to brush up on your interview skills and come out as a winner from your next interview!
1. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early. This will give you ample time to catch your breath, gather your thoughts and make a quick trip to the washroom to give your appearance one final check. To avoid unnecessary stress, choose your interview attire the night before.
2. Greet the interviewer by his or her last name. If you are unsure of the pronunciation, do ask the employer to repeat it. Or better still, check it with the front desk personnel or receptionist before walking into the interview room.
3. Let the interviewer lead the conversation but try to get him/her to describe the position and duties to you early in the interview. This will allow you to apply your background, skills and achievements to the position.
4. When asked: “Tell me about yourself?”, focus your answers on your background and a few professional and personal accomplishments.
5. Stress on your achievements. For example: your sales records, the processes you have developed or systems installed, projects that you initiated, etc.
6. Show enthusiasm. This can be demonstrated through verbal and non-verbal cues (for example, appropriate body language like nodding can be used to support your interest). Enthusiastic feedback can enhance your chances of being further considered.
7. Answer questions by speaking in terms of the position. Emphasize what you can do for the company. Mention specific accomplishments that show your abilities and determination to succeed in this job. Your answers describe the position and duties to you early in the interview. This will allow you to apply your background, skills and achievements to the position. should tell the employer why you would be an asset to the company and not why you need a job.
8. Bring an extra copy of your resume.
9. Explain whenever possible; don’t answer with a simple “yes” or “no.”
Be prepared to answer questions such as:
* Tell me about yourself.
* Tell me about your background and accomplishments.
* What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
* How would you describe your most recent job performance?
* What interests you about our company?
Also, be prepared to ask questions such as:
* What would I be expected to accomplish in this position?
* What are the greatest challenges in this position?
* How do you think I fit the position?
Remember, your lack of questions may be mistaken as lack of interest in the job.
Summary
If you are interested in the position, stress this to the interviewer. If you get the impression that the interview is not going well and that you have already been rejected, do not let your discouragement show. Once in a while an interviewer who is genuinely interested in you may seem to discourage you as a way of testing your reaction. Remember to thank the interviewer for his/her time and end the session with a confident and firm handshake.
Some interview pitfalls to avoid:
1. Don’t arrive at the interview late.
2. Don’t over or under dress or dress inappropriately for the position. First impressions do count and you want to be dressed to show that you fit into the desired role.
3. Don’t wear strong perfume.
4. Don’t forget to take with you extra clean copies of your CV as well as a notebook and pen with which to take notes.
5. Don’t forget to shake the hand of the Interviewer firmly - a limp or sweaty handshake will not be looked on favorably.
6. Don’t chew gum, smoke, eat or drink at the Interview.
7. Don’t act distracted. Look the Interviewer straight in the eye and give him your full and undivided attention.
8. Don’t let your body language send the wrong messages. Be aware of the nonverbal cues you are sending out! Sit upright and straight in the chair facing the employer and smile. Lean forward occasionally to express interest. Avoid crossing your arms or legs in front of you (suggests defensiveness), slouching in the chair (suggests sloppiness and lack of energy), leaning too far back (may be interpreted as being overly familiar and disrespectful), talking to the floor (lack of confidence) or flirting.
9. Don’t refer to the Interviewer by his first name unless he specifically asks you to do so.
10. Don’t talk about your weaknesses or failings or apologize for lack of education, experience, training etc. Everyone has weaknesses; the Interview is the time to showcase your enthusiasm and strengths.
11. Don’t make derogatory comments about previous bosses or peers. This is never acceptable and particularly works against you in the Interview.
12. Don’t act tired or jaded. Employers are invariably looking for someone to energize, inspire and uplift the team. Try to act enthusiastic and full of energy and motivation.
13. Don’t act unfocused and uncertain about what you want. Whatever interview you’re in - you want THAT job.
14. Don’t lie. Answer briefly, truthfully and concisely.
15. Don’t interrupt.
16. Avoid giving ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers. Support your answers with examples and be as factual and concise as you can.
17. Don’t talk too much. Focus your answers on the particular question and on your related strengths. Watch for signals that the Interviewer is losing interest and stop talking immediately.
18. Don’t talk about your personal life. You have not been hired yet so keep it professional. This is no the time to talk about failed love lives, a husband who asked you to quit your job etc.!
19. Don’t treat questions as jokes or try to be too funny.
20. Don’t ask about holidays, perks, hours or compensation until you’ve actually been made a serious offer.
21. Don’t act overly confident or superior. Ultimately, unless you are applying to the very senior level positions, the Interviewer is looking for someone who is manageable and will fit into the team.
22. Don’t drop names of influential friends and acquaintances unless you are passing a message or someone has referred you. Be very careful and professional when you mention names of clients and make sure you are never giving out confidential information.
23. Don’t leave abruptly. Shake the Interviewer’s hand firmly, thank him for his time and ask what the next step will be.
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