You have just gotten an opportunity for an interview to a seemingly great job! However, to go through the interview successfully and actually grab that job will require thorough preparation and a well-planned follow up. Here are 30 tips to use when you are preparing for that interview.
The first is company research. This should always be the first step and it involves gathering all the background information on the potential employers. Thus, one should be able to answer such questions as "What do you know about the company?" This will also make the interview more interactive and relaxing.
Review the company's website and get what you can about it.
Don't hesitate to contact the prospective employers to request information as to the position. Be sure to look for outside sources online that pertains to the company.
The fourth point is to practice what your responses will be, with either your friend or by recording your responses and playing them.
Think of actual examples of times when you have used your skills. This provides credibility to what you are saying and to your resume.
Get ready by having your attire neat and tidy long before the interview day.
Bring along your portfolio and copies of certifications and resume.
Do not forget to carry a pen and paper on the interview day for note taking.
Arrive 5 to 10 minutes early before the interview begins.
During the interview, try to stay calm and relaxed. It is always advisable to regroup.
When being interviewed, maintain eye contact with the one interviewing.
Listen to the questions and wait until the interviewer is through before answering.
Take note to pay attention when you are being questioned since forgetting the question will leave a bad impression on the interviewer.
Try to be as relevant as possible when answering questions. This means that you try to relate what you know with what the company is looking for.
Use proper English when answering questions and avoid slang or street language since this is generally considered unprofessional.
Try to be as cooperative and enthusiastic as possible as this will make the interviewer feel you are an easy person to talk to.
Ensure that your body language shows you are interested. That means avoid slouchy and dejected looks and instead sit straight and shoulders up.
Ask questions about the position and the organization.
Avoid asking questions that can be found on the company's website.
Avoid asking questions about salary and job benefits.
Thank the interviewer after the interview.
Do not chew gum or smoke before or during the interview.
Use good manners with everyone at the interview location.
Remember to bring your social security card at the interview.
Ensure you have at least 3 references before the interview.
Bring along a government-issued identification or a driver's license.
Do not talk too much during the interview.
Respond only when prompted and do this respectfully.
Do not refer to the interviewer as "buddy", "pal", and other informal terms. Use the right salutations.
