Preparing for the Job Interview
Sooner or later, everyone must go through the interview process for a job. In most cases, you will not be the only person seeking the position. Therefore, it is imperative to be more prepared than the last person. As for myself, there have been quite a few opportunities for me to go through such experiences. When you’re working with clients, there are many other qualified candidates for the same contract you’re vying for. Thus, not only must you be prepared, but also better.
I have found these to be most effective in my personal life:
Clear Objectives
When applying for a position, the definition of what is expected from the applicant is usually well defined. However, it also must be clear what your objectives are for the job. If preparing a website and an employer demands utilizing print promotion, while you insist on social media outlets, the employee/employer relationship will likely be unfruitful, unless the employer is willing to allow your flexibility.
Dress Appropriately
It does not matter if an interview is for a plumber or president, it is important to present yourself as a professional. It shows that you care about getting the position, and that you are ready to make a good impression. Studies have shown that people who are dressed professionally think professionally, making it extremely important.
Stay Calm
Even if this is the only opportunity available, keep relaxed and composed. If you can’t keep yourself together for an interview, how will you be expected to perform under pressure for your employer?
Conduct the Interview
While you are the interviewee, it is important to also be the interviewer. You show that not only the position matters, but it is important to understand the work environment and the employer that will be in charge of your work. Therefore, it is important to utilize the questions given for you as a catalyst for responding to what you need for the employer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Be upfront about what you are good and bad with. It is important to never tell an employer that you are good at something that isn’t true (good advice in life, generally). Instead, tell them what can and cannot be accomplished through your hiring. Trust me, they’ll appreciate it.
Resume: a tool, not crutch
If you’ve made it to the interview, then they have already read your resume. There’s no reason to talk about it further. Instead, utilize it to remind them about your previous experiences, and how they have prepared you for the job offered today.
Turn off the phone
Better yet, just don’t bring it with you. If there is something really pressing, it’s probably not a good idea to hold an interview at that time. It has been my experience that prospective employers want all of your attention, not pre-occupation.
Keep eye contact
It shows confidence, but don’t stare at the interviewer the entire time.
Conclude with a summary
Remind the interviewer why you’re the best. Remember, this is a pitch for yourself. In speeches, people remember the beginning and the end, not as much the middle. Therefore, take the main points of your interview and format it like you would a presentation.
Follow-up
Many people forget to write back to the interviewer — and I mean write, not email. It is impressive and memorable to the employer that you’ve taken the time to respond to the interview. Even if they can’t offer you the job at the time, this token item will remind hiring managers that you were there.
