How to Prepare for a Job Interview
An interview is the best time to persuade the recruiter that you are the most suitable person for the job offered. You may not be a master of the job you are applying for, but by mastering the interview techniques you can win your dream job to achieve your anticipated position. Do not forget that your first impression has a great impact. Your every action and expression is watched. With proper knowledge about the organization, suitable attire, and good preparation you can grab the job. You have to take a number of preparatory actions before walking in for an interview. Be motivated enough to get closer to a great opportunity ahead.
Read ahead for some useful interview techniques.
Gather knowledge about organization
Preparation for every task is most recommended in all conditions. A blank mind is like a dark cave, where one is always groping for ways out. In the same manner, an interviewee has to be best prepared in every aspect, out of which what holds importance is the knowledge about the organization you have applied in. This will make you more confident about the surroundings you are in and will give you an edge above other candidates who could be a little less prepared. The company information will be helpful for you in various questions during interview. It will also help you in judging whether joining the company will be beneficial for your career or not.
Make sure to take an overview of the organization, view its website, read its reviews from clients and employees; if possible gain firsthand information about the organization from a former employee. Learn about its development, product line, mission, industry profile, services and client base. Search about its current position in the industry, know about its competitors and what gives it an edge over the others.
Make an analysis of yourself as compared to the job
To prepare for job interview you must have an understanding of the job requirement. There could be a possibility that you are the right person or not fit for the job or the job is not fit for you. Run through the education, experience and skill required by the job and then determine whether the position is fit for you or not. Do take time to learn what the employer requires from the candidates for the offered position, and which skills will give you boost in the applied industry.
Make sure you have a list of your personal skills pointed out so you can assure the interviewer of your ability to deliver your best on the job. Your personal skills may include your education, certifications, computer skills, experience, professional attributes and other strengths.
All this preparation will be helpful in effectively answering questions in the interview. Keep all the related information revised and well read, so that you can have an impressive conversation.
Rehearse your interview
No matter how confident you are but being judged in an interview creates some uneasiness. The best way is to rehearse your interview before hand. Sit with a friend or a family member and have them question you as if in an interview, it will help you in judging your own answers that you can rectify. Tell about yourself in brief sentences making them more effective, practice to answer questions, this will also help you to stay relaxed. Be conscious about your body language right from the start.
You can also practice if it is a phone interview. Have a friend to call you on phone to prepare to talk to an interviewer. This will enable you to practice starting your greetings, what to say and what not to say, keep check on your voice levels.
For an interview which is to be conducted by a panel, request a couple of friends to act as a panel and get prepared to answer different questions.
Dress for an Interview
In an interview not only your skill but your appearance is also judged. As you plan and organize your documents, so should you plan and set your dress. A proper attire shows respect and a serious attitude towards work and professionalism; you are taken more seriously if properly dressed up.
Make sure your clothes are neat and ironed. They should be according to the job for which you are applying. Use neutral colors and dress shoes, avoiding strong perfumes which may be allergic to any of the interviewers and may cause discomfort. You should be well groomed with properly cropped and made hair and nails.
For ladies, do not forget about your hair, make-up and accessories. They should not be over-powering, use everything subtle, giving attention to small details matters.
Check that your clothes and shoes are not worn-out. Keep in mind that your first impression always lasts.
What to bring along
The must haves of your interview include your resume’, a copy of your educational credentials and certificates, references, copy of sample work (if any) and a notepad and pen.
What not to bring includes a cell phone (which should be on silent), eatables (like chewing gum during the interview) and anything else which could be distracting.
Body language
Your body language portrays most about you. As soon as you enter the office where your interview is about to be conducted your assessment starts.
Stay confident and comfortable, this adds to your self-assurance. Avoid being fidgety, too many movements are disturbing for others. Maintain eye contact but do not stare, smile but keep it slight, do not rest on the desk or place your belongings. Think before you answer but don’t take too long.
Be enthusiastic, pleasant and polite to leave a notable impression.
Ask Questions and acknowledge
Keep notes of what you would want to know from your interviewer in case your interview ends with your queries. Your questions could be:
- What are the qualities someone requires to gain success in this job?
- What are the job expectations?
- What do you like about the company?
- What makes this company a good place to work?
- Where will the company stand in next 5 years?
Also acknowledge your interviewer for taking interest in you and giving you time to speak. Show your enthusiasm and interest in the job and that you would wait for a response.
Know the directions
To reach before the time of interview, you must know where the organization or building is located.
It is always a good idea to go and see the place one or two days in advance. You can work-out your travel mode and the travelling time.
How to Prepare for a Job Interview