As you probably already know, an interview is very much like an impromptu exam: you’ll have a limited amount of time to answer a specific set of questions you don’t know in advance, and the result could have a profound effect on your future prospects.
And just like for a test, preparation is everything.
So, if you’ve just landed an interview for a seemingly wonderful job, and you’re trying your best to prepare for a successful interview in order to lock in an offer, here are some tips for effective interviewing from preparation through follow up:
1. First Impressions Count
Greet your interviewer with a smile and firm handshake. Give eye contact. Try to make small talk during the walk from the reception area to the interview room. One human resources manager points out, “You have to sell yourself before you can sell anything else and the first 30 seconds are when the interviewer subconsciously makes decisions about whether they like you or not and whether you will fit into the team.”
2. Be Prepared
Re-read your resume and the job advert just before the interview. Do your research thoroughly: Look at the company web site or obtain literature. You may be asked about the salary you are after so make sure you research that as well.
3. Why Should They Hire You?
Most job descriptions will list qualities they’re looking for – a team worker, a good communicator – so it’s up to you to think of examples of how you can demonstrate these skills. Be ready to talk about your knowledge, experience, abilities and skills. Have at least three strong points about yourself that you can relate to the company and job on offer.
4. Tackle the Tough Questions
Once you’re inside, it’s time for the hard part: answering the interview questions. Know the questions you’ll be expected to answer backwards and forwards, and do some extra research on answering the really tough ones, like “what is your biggest weakness,” “have you ever been fired,” “tell me about a challenge you faced with a coworker,” or even just the ever-vague “tell me about yourself.” Most of all: learn why they’re asking you each question and tailor your responses to their hidden motives. Don’t be afraid to dance around questions you’d rather not answer, too.
5. Remember Your Body Language
It is not what you say, but how you say it. During the interview, do not fold your arms and lean back or look to the floor! Sit upright and try to maintain good eye contact. Use your hands and lean forward when making a point. Many people cannot think and control their body language at the same time, which is why you need to prepare.
6. Expect the Unexpected
Your interviewer may try to catch you off guard: 90 per cent of employers ask ‘killer’ questions in interviews. It is impossible to plan for every difficult question, such as “How would your colleagues describe you?” but try to appear relaxed and in control. Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if necessary but do not evade it. Hopefully you will not befall the fate of those job candidates at B&Q who were asked to dance to “Blame it on the Boogie”!
7. Recover When Things Go South
Hopefully, with the right preparation, your interview will go smoothly. But, if you end up answering a question terribly or hit a common brick wall (like claims of “overqualification“), learn how to turn the tide quickly so you can get back on good footing. If you leave the interview thinking the whole thing was a disaster, you can always request a second interview explaining the problems you had, too.
8. Develop Rapport
Show energy, a sense of humor and smile. It’s infectious, being positive and enthusiastic.
9. Ask Some Questions Yourself
Your interviewer shouldn’t be the only one asking questions. This is your chance to not only make a good impression, but learn a bit more about the job you’re applying for. Ask a few questions that will make you look good, as well as some questions that’ll show you whether this is the right job for you. With the right questions prepared, you’ll be one step ahead of the competition.
10. Remember Your Manners
It is better to choose than to be chosen. Tell the interviewer why you are interested in the company and job opportunity. Ask them for a business card and follow it up by sending a “thank-you” e-mail or letter, saying how much you enjoyed meeting them and how interested you are. Take the opportunity to detail the key advantages you bring.
And for bonus points:
11. If You Don’t Get Hired, Find Out Why
Not every interview will be a winner, sadly, even if you do everything right. If you don’t get hired, the best thing you can do is find out why and apply that knowledge to your next round of interviews. Look back on your interview and think about what you could have done better, whether it’s avoiding the “overqualification” trap or just simply using better grammar. There are any number of reasons someone might not hire you, and all you can do is use this round as practice for your next interview.
Tags: interview, job search, offline branding, questions, resume, Tyrone Norwood