7 INTERVIEW TIPS THAT WILL HELP YOU GET THE JOB
Check out the following job interview tips to help prepare you for successful interviews. Proper preparation will help put you at ease and alleviate some of the stress involved. The more you prepare, the more comfortable and successful you will be at the interviewing process.
1. Practice & Prepare - Practice your reponses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of concrete examples you can use to highlight your skills. The easiest way to do this is to make a list of the job requirements and match them to your experience. Providing evidence of your success and experience is a great way to promote yourself. Also - have a list of your own questions ready to ask the employer.
2. Research the Company - Do your homework about the employer and industry so you are ready for the interview question "What do you know about this company?" Try to relate what you have learned about the company when answering questions. Know the interviewer's name, and use it during the job interview. If you're not sure of the name, call and ask prior to your interview. Building rapport and making a personal connection with your interviewer can up your chances of getting hired. People tend to hire candidates they like, and who seem to be a good fit for the company culture.
3. Get Ready Ahead of Time - Don't wait for the last minute to prepare. Have one good interview outfit ready so you can interview on short notice without having to worry about what to wear. When you have an interview lined up, get everything ready the night before. Make sure your interview attire is neat, tidy, and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Bring a nice portfolio with extra copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.
4. Be On Time (That Means Early) - Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there. Give yourself a few extra minutes to visit the rest room, check your outfit, and calm your nerves.
5. Try to Stay Calm - During the job interview, try to relax and stay as calm as possible. Remember that your body language says as much about you as your answers to the questions. Proper preparation will allow you to exude confidence. Take a moment to regroup if you need it. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question (active listening) before you answer, and pay attention - you will be embarrassed if you forget the question.
6. Show What You Know - Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments, match them to what the company is looking for. Use examples from your research when answering questions. "I noticed that when you implemented a new software system last year, your customer satisfaction ratings improved dramatically. I am well versed in the latest technologies from my experience with developing software at ABC, and appreciate a company that strives to be a leader in its industry."
7. Follow Up - Always follow up with a thank you note or e-mail reiterating your interest in the position. You can also include any details you may have forgotten to mention during your interview. If you interview with multiple people, send each one a personal note. Send or e-mail your thank you within 24 hours of your interview.
