Prospective employees may feel honored that they have been selected for a job interview, but also nervous as they prepare for the evaluation that might allow them to be hired. Interviews are often the candidate's only opportunity to make a positive first impression and to express their skills. The time and energy spent on preparation can be instrumental in getting through the interview and getting the job.
Steps
Method 1 of 1: Do the Interview Well
Step 1. Prepare all necessary documentation, including curriculum vitae, references, a detail of previous experience (if necessary) and the cover letter
Look carefully at all documents to look for any typos and / or grammatical errors. Ask a friend or relative to check them for inaccuracies or oversights
Step 2. Gather information about the company and your interviewer, if you know their name before the interview
You will give the impression of being a serious candidate if you come to the interview with some basic knowledge about the company. Also knowing the name of your interviewer and some details about their role in the company can help you to maintain a more conversational dialogue and put yourself in a good light
Step 3. Anticipate and practice answering typical job interview questions
- The most frequently asked questions are: "What is your most difficult job-related challenge?" “Why would you be a good member of the company?”, “What is your strength?” And “What is your weakness?” Prepare yourself with honest answers, but that give you a good image.
- Interviewers often ask you if you have any questions to ask yourself. If you do them, you show that you have engaged in the conversation, so make a list already, so that you don't find yourself surprised and have to improvise when asked.
Step 4. Choose a dress that looks professional and comfortable with
In most cases, dark colored clothing is appropriate, unless it is an interview for a job that requires very casual attire; in both cases the trousers and shirt collar should be clean
Step 5. Show up 15 minutes before the appointment
- If the interview is taking place in an unfamiliar location, take the route the day before to make sure you don't arrive late because you got lost.
- Stay busy while you wait, write notes, or cover the job and company description. Hold the documents and miscellaneous material with your left hand, so you are ready to stand up and shake hands as soon as the interviewer greets you.
Step 6. Carry a piece of paper and a pen, to keep in your wallet or briefcase, to jot down quick notes if needed
You can also bring additional copies of both your application documents and the list of questions to ask.
Taking notes makes you appear busy and well organized. It also helps you remember important details and names, which may come in handy later in the interview, or when you have a second interview, if any. Be careful to only take short notes and only when strictly necessary, because if you take too long to write down things you can get distracted easily
Step 7. Send a handwritten thank you note right after the interview
- Summarize the important details of the interview by writing them on your notes to refresh your memory. Be sure to thank the interviewer for the opportunity he gave you, and let him know that you will be looking forward to hearing from the company soon.
- If there is any chance that the company decides to hire soon, send a thank you email, as well as the handwritten note. You need to make sure the interviewer gets your written message before selecting the candidate.
Advice
- Make a verification call if you have not received a response within a certain period set by the interviewer.
- Make sure you maintain eye contact during the interview, and show confidence in your responses.
- If you will not be selected for the job, ask why someone else was chosen. It may help you to be successful in future interviews.
