Job Hunter's Tip of the Week #18 -
How to ace the Interview!
Receiving the call to come for an interview is a very exciting moment, which lasts for about the duration of the call, maybe a few minutes after. Then panic sets in! Everyone stresses about having an interview. After all, there is a job on the line. But being as well prepared as possible can help elevate the stress and make the interview go much more smoothly.
Here are some tips for overcoming the stress and making an impression:
1. First, re read the article from last week, and make sure you have all your items ready well in advance of the interview time. I can’t say it enough, do not wait until the last minute to start preparing. The absolute worst impression you can make at an interview is being late!!
2. If you’re feeling jittery and shaky before going into the interview, try doing some deep breathing techniques. A few deep breaths, in through the mouth and out the nose, can really help to calm your nerves and increase your concentration. Try to avoid coffee or sodas before the interview, as the caffeine can increase the jitters.
3. Arrive early, and use the time wisely. Getting there 10 minutes early shows the employer you are keen. Advise someone you are there, and then take a seat and try to relax. Go over any notes you made about the company, or review any presentations or documents you were asked to prepare. Make sure you haven’t forgotten anything at home. If you did, don’t panic! Rehearse in your head how you will calmly explain to the employer that you have forgotten (don’t lie and say the dog ate it!) something they asked for, and ask if you can return with it immediately following the interview. This is also a good time to check your breath, and have a mint on hand just in case!
4. When you are asked to come in, put a nice big smile on your face; stand up straight and walk confidently into the interview room. Extend your hand for a good, firm handshake and introduce yourself. Wait until the employer motions or asks you to sit down. Then let him or her lead the conversation.
5. Listen carefully to all the questions being asked. Do not interrupt the employer when they are asking a question. Ask them to repeat the question if necessary. It’s better to ask for clarification, then to answer a question they didn’t ask!
6. Make sure that when you are answering the questions, you are always putting a positive light on yourself. A common question that is asked during an interview is “What is your biggest weakness?” Now, if you followed my advice from last week, you have already anticipated this question and have an answer prepared. Be sure that even though you are discussing something that you don’t do well, give it a positive twist. Such as even though this is a weakness, this is how you compensate for it.
7. Never say anything bad about a previous employer. Even if your last job was the worst place on earth, try to find something positive that you learned while there. And keep your feelings about your ex boss to yourself.
8. When you reach the end of the interview, be sure that you have asked any questions that you still have. Try to avoid asking about salary until they have offered you the job. Be sure to thank the employer for the opportunity to interview for them. Give them another firm handshake and a smile. Ask when you might hear from them, and if you will be advised if you were not the successful candidate. Exit the room with the same confidence you came in with. When you get outside, take a nice deep breath, and pat yourself on the back. You did it!!!!
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