Have you just got the call or email asking to come in for an interview? Yeah!!! Getting excited and being nervous is normal. Most interviewers understand this. It rarely harms your chances if you acknowledge it and remember this famous saying “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” – Alexander Graham Bell. You must be prepared beforehand to make sure interview runs smoothly.
Let me suggest you some of the basic important things that you need to get prepared beforehand the interview process so that you can face your interviewer and answer his/her questions confidently. The following are those important things that you need to get prepared:
Before The Interview
1. Prepare your resume
Your resume is the perfect opportunity to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate that you have what they are looking for. Create a resume which tells them how you can add values to their company. Any skill or experience you add on your resume should be relevant. Even the font that you use in your resume says something about who you are. So make sure that your resume is good enough to make the first impression. Check out our article on How To Make Your Resume Look Unique to get some cool ideas and you can also see our Best fonts article to get some idea on what type of fonts to use.
2. Time and location
A day or two before your interview, drive to the location so that you get to know how much time it takes to reach the company. Moreover you get to know about details like where to park your vehicle and can also make sure to reach the company on time. Be aware of rush hour times and weather conditions.
3. Research the company and role
Look into the company’s background on company’s website and search for recent news articles on Google. Also don’t forget to surf about the specific role for which you are going to be interviewed. Because these little little things will help you answer some hypothetical questions during your interview.
4. Trial Run
One of the worst things that can happen during an interview is drawing a complete blank. You can practice your answers to the certain questions that are most frequently asked like “Tell me about yourself”, “Why should we hire you for this position”, “Tell me about your short term and long term goals”.
5. Grooming
If you are planning to have a hair cut, do it a week before the interview day. Because it will at least take some 5 to 7 days to look perfectly groomed. Try on your interview dress a day or two prior to the interview to give you time to reassess and iron out any wrinkles. This can save a lot of time and frustration on your big day.
During The Interview
1. Make the first impression
Dress for success. Neutral colors such as black, brown, gray and blue are suitable for both men and women. Smile and greet your interviewer confidently. Make sure to arrive at the place a few minutes early.
2. Answering the question
Keep your responses short, honest and focussed to each question. Speak clearly and present yourself as a confident and sensible professional.
3. Body language
Maintain eye contact, present a strong handshake and smile. Smiling too much can make you seem nervous. Smile upon intro and exit only. Avoid speaking too fast, too slow or too low.
After The Interview
1. Thank the interviewer and exchange pleasantries
Make sure you thank the interviewer(s) for their time and shake hands with them. You may ask them about expected decision making period.
2. Follow up the interviewer
Always follow up within 24 hours with a thank you note and express your appreciation. It can make a huge difference. 75% of the interviewers say that receiving the follow-up impacts their decision-making. Don’t be a stalker or pester when following up. Always stay professional… Good Luck!!!
Also check out our article on “How To Develop Your Personality“.
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