An Interview is an instrumental part of a job application process. In most cases, this serves as a crucial point for interviewers and usually the decision to hire or reject a candidate is based on the interview. The following are a few helpful tips when you are scheduled for an interview:
Be punctual
It is very important to make an impression in every way to your prospective employers. It is essential to look good in every aspect and stage of your interview. Different employers place importance on various factors but a candidate’s seriousness is measured by his punctuality as well. Coming on time or at least a few minutes before your scheduled interview helps you calm down and prepare yourself mentally for the interviewer panel. It also helps to create a good impression about you. If you are unable to come on time for the interview due to unforeseeable circumstances, it is important to inform the organization about it. It is professional on your part to explain the situation and ask if the interview can be scheduled at a later time or date.
Come in formal attire
It’s said that a first impression is often the last impression. Dressing formally shows that you are serious about the job and enhances your chances of being hired. However, make sure that you are appropriately dressed for the position you are applying for and do not appear over dressed or gaudy, or it could create a negative impression instead. For instance, if you are applying for the position of a salesman, dress up respectably. Likewise, if you are applying for the position of a manager, wearing a smart suit with a tie will make you look good. For ladies, it is important to wear minimal make up and dress formally too. It’s important not to turn up for an interview looking like you have come for a party.
Be courteous and Polite
Behaving in a courteous and polite manner is expected from all candidates. At the same time, your politeness should not appear fake, or look like you are trying too hard. It is advisable to prepare a few lines of introduction and practise by yourself or in the company of a friend. That will help you relax during the interview and ensure you don’t get tongue tied. Let your courtesy come naturally. You also need to remember that there are interviewers that are very particular with the way interviewers carry themselves in the interview and may get irritated with extremes or put on behaviour. It is therefore proper that you observe the people around, size-up what manners would seemingly appropriate and then behave accordingly.
Get to your answers with precision
If you are required to answer a question, go straight to the point. Don’t make long introductions that may confuse your interviewer and may derail your answers. This may make him think that you do not know the answer, or he might lose interest in the gist of your answer. Do not answer when you do not understand the question. It would be good to ask the interviewer to rephrase the question rather than answering them and giving your interviewer bad impression and missing your point.
Be truthful
The one reason why most candidates fail to get hired is because they pretend to be somebody they are not. You may think that behaving in this manner would impress the panel, but interviewers will most likely dismiss you as being fake and pretentious. Most companies conduct background checks on candidates, and if you make up details which later prove to be untrue, it will hurt your credibility. Any information you disclose during an interview may make or break you after the background investigation. Most interviewers will ask questions to identify your strengths and weaknesses, other talents and skills and your capabilities. This enables them to identify how you would be an asset to the organization and also how, they can help you to maximize your capabilities and tap your potentials. Giving false information would not only pose unwanted difficulties to the management but to you as well.
Ask questions
As a candidate, you have a right to understand what role the organization wants you to play if hired. You may also have other questions with regard to salary raises or promotions to ask. The right time to clear any doubts you may have is after the interviewers have finished asking you their questions. Most of the times, the interviewers themselves will ask you if you have any questions, but if they don’t, it is alright to ask them if they could clear a few doubts of yours. Aside from getting things clarified, this shows that you are keen on understanding the job position and organization better, leading to a good impression about you. Remember to wait for the right moment to pose your questions and do not interrupt an interviewer mid way.
All interviewers like confident candidates who can answer their questions clearly and convey information the proper way. While some candidates may be very confident about performing well at an interview, most of us need a bit of preparation to make a good impression. One way to ensure a smooth flow of conversation from your side is to think beforehand of what you will say when asked basic questions about qualifications, work experience or suitability for the job. That way, you will be able to frame your answers well during the actual interview and appear confident as well. If possible, have a mock interview session with a friend a day before the actual interview. That will give you a feel of the interview itself and help you stay mentally prepared.
