TIPS FOR FACING INTERVIEW
Be yourself: Do not try to be someone you are not. The interviewer is an expert of his job and will immediately catch hold of any dishonest statement or action you portray. Do not pretend to be someone you are not.
Maintain an eye contact: One of the best to project confidence is to maintain an eye contact with the person who is interviewing you. Do not look here and there or up and down for it shows nervousness.
Body language: Most of the communication that we do during an interview is non-verbal. Sit straight. Do not shake your legs or tap your feet in nervousness. Do not fiddle with your hair or rub your hands. After all, the interviewer is also just another human being. He is sure to have some flaws too.
Dress appropriately: Remember, you are going for an interview, not a fancy dress competition or party. Dress smartly and neatly. Do not wear a lot of jewellery. If ladies are wearing a saree, pin it properly. Do not walk in for the interview shabbily. Tuck your hair properly. Do not wear any uncomfortable dress. Wearing formals is always suitable for appearing in an interview.
Know you CV, job and company: Have a firm grasp on your CV, the job you’re applying for and the company. Be specific about your achievements and your growth so far. Set examples of events that set you apart from others. Think of a reason why the interviewer should hire you. Give them a reason to choose you. Also, know the company well. You are required to work for them; therefore they expect you to be well-informed of the organisation, its products, services and industry as a whole.
First impression may or may not be the last one, but it definitely is a lasting impression. Make sure, you get it right.
- Do your research –
Researching the company before the interview and learning as much as possible about its services, products, customers and competition will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the company’s needs. The more you know about the company and what it stands for, the better chance you have of selling your self in the interview You also should find out about the company’s culture to gain insight into your potential happiness on the job.
2. Look sharp –
Select what you wear to interview Depending on the industry and position, get out your best interview clothes and check them over for spots and wrinkles. Even if the company has a casual environment, you don’t want to look like you slept in your outfit. Above all, dress for confidence. If you feel good, others will respond to you accordingly.
3. Be prepared –
Bring along a folder containing extra copies of your resume, a copy of your references and paper to take notes. You should also have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview. For extra assurance, print a copy of Monster’s handy interview check –along checklist.
4. Be on time –
Never arrive late to an interview. Allow extra time to arrive early in the vicinity, allowing for factors like getting lost. Enter the building 10 to 15 minutes before the interview.
5. Show enthusiasm –
A firm handshake and plenty of eye contact demonstrate confidence. Speak distinctly in a confident voice, even though you may feel shaky.
6. Listen –
One of the most neglected interview skill is listening Make sure you are not only listening, but also reading between the lines. Sometimes what is not said is just as important as what is said.
7. Answer the question asked –
Candidates often don’t think about whether they are actually answering the questions their interviewers ask. Make sure you understand what is being asked, and get further clarification if you are unsure.
8. Give specific examples –
One specific example of your background is worth 50 vague stories. Prepare your stories before the interview. Give example that that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Your past behavior can indicate your future performance.
9. Ask questions –
Many interviewees don’t ask questions and miss the opportunity to find out valuable information. The questions you ask indicate your interest in the company or job.
10. Follow up –
Whether it’s through email or regular mail, the interview follow up is one more chance to remind the interviewer of all the valuable traits you bring to the job and company. Don’t miss this last chance to market yourself.