Usually, employers know a lot about a candidate before the interview itself. The candidate’s application reveals his or her background, work experiences, and general interests. Accordingly, the interview itself is less about determining the candidate’s general qualifications and much more about giving the employer an opportunity to judge the candidate’s personality and professionalism.
Of course, being judged like this can put anyone under pressure, but the following tips should minimize that pressure by helping you create the right impressions in your interview:
Before the Interview:
- Write an email to the employer to confirm the time and place of the interview. Such diligence should impress the interviewer.
- If you are nervous, practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend.
- Research the dress code of the organization in question. If you are not sure what to wear, err on the side of conservative, professional attire.
- Specifically, subdued colors, styles, and patterns of clothing are safest. Don’t let your clothes become a distraction--for you or the interviewer
- Good personal hygiene is important. Prepare accordingly.
- Arrive at the interview a few minutes early.
- Utilize the extra time to make a few final checks on your appearance and to gather your thoughts.
- Introduce yourself to the receptionist, remembering to be polite and respectful to him or her and to anyone else you might meet.
- Be enthusiastic about the opportunity to meet with the employer.
- Walk into the interview confidently.
- Greet the interviewer with a pleasant smile.
- Offer a firm, professional handshake.
- Offer a greeting as well. A simple “nice to meet you” should be fine.
- Don’t sit down immediately when you enter the room. Wait to be offered a seat.
- You may be offered a drink. It is your choice to accept or decline the offer, however, it is probably a good idea to decline, as you don’t want anything to distract you.
- Maintain eye contact to convey confidence.
- Speak clearly and loudly enough to be understood.
- Listen attentively and be sure to answer specifically any question posed to you.
- If you are not sure what was asked, ask the interviewer to repeat the question.
- Act interested and lean slightly forward in your chair.
- Avoid sitting defensively with your arms and legs crossed.
- Don’t be too anxious to prove yourself.
- Don’t play with your hair, clothing, or items in your pockets.
- Monitor the style, tone, and delivery of your responses.
- Don’t put on a façade, be yourself.
- Avoid using slang and profanities.
- Show interest in the job, but avoid seeming desperate.
