Posted by There can be nothing more exciting than getting the very first interview call, especially if you have been working hard at applying for jobs. While an interview call is indeed a positive sign and a step closer to your ambition, it is not yet the end of the road as you still need to crack that interview.
While an interview call is indeed a positive sign and a step closer to your ambition, it is not yet the end of the road as you still need to crack that interview.
Face-to-face interaction with a prospective employer, especially the very first time, makes a lasting impression and increases your chances of landing the job.
But how can this be accomplished? How does a jobseeker prepare for an interview that lies ahead? We live in a highly competitive job environment with enough competent professionals, and therefore, preparedness is highly recommended.
Does a job seeker need to stress? Avoidable.
Here are some thumb rules to be followed before attending an interview.
1. Find out more about the job and the company.
Doing this carries a lot of weight because merely knowing more than necessary information about the company you are interviewing for showing your interest and commitment to landing a job there. Today almost half of the employers have revealed that candidates who are not aware of their business and what is expected of them stand a less chance of finding employment with them.
2. Never be too confident about your knowledge.
While an impressive personality can be a positive influence, what sets you apart if subject knowledge, be it a fresher or an experienced job seeker. Be doubly sure on your basics if you are fresher and if you are a skilled hand, organize your thoughts about your achievements and be prepared for trick questions.
3. Work on mock interviews, anticipate specific potential questions.
Most interviews begin with generic questions; the way they are answered is that which makes a difference. You can make a list of such potential questions and prepare for the same, for instance, questions such as “Where do you see yourself ten years from now? Why do you think you are the right fit for this position? Describe yourself to us?”. A fair amount of knowledge of current affairs will also help. Most of the interviews have many common questions.
4. Ensure that you are punctual.
Plan your day well ahead, anticipate travel delays, leave and reach your destination on time. Jobseekers are always in demand and remember that a single misstep could cost you your opportunity. Reach your destination a little ahead will also help you settle in the environment, calm your nerves before you are called in for the interview.
5. Focus and stay attentive the whole time.
Ensure that your entire attention is devoted to the interviewer in front of you and the learning environment around. Paying attention and hanging on to every word that is being uttered reflects how earnest one’s efforts are. This sets the pace for understanding and a lively and informative exchange of ideas, which helps the employer assess the job seeker.
6. Know your own resume inside out.
Standard questions such as “Please explain your resume to me, what are these accomplishments about? What are your career goals, etc.? “etc., are some standard questions that are asked during an interview. It is essential to have clear well thought crisp answers to every nook and corner of details in the profile, if possible, rehearsing them ahead will help. It is important to remember that there is very less time to make a solid impression with an interviewer.
6. It is important to stay motivated.
All interviews might not head in the direction planned; there is a lot of dynamics that are at play here. Therefore, it is best to adopt a positive, enthusiastic attitude all through. The interviewer or the panel will always be noticing your demeanor tone and mood carefully until the interview is complete. Stay conscious, calm, and sound optimistic.
7. Mention your strengths.
It is important to discuss the areas of your strengths, highlights in the resume that can be spoken about, etc. In today’s competitive environment, unique strengths, attributes, and your ability to substantiate what you claim is that which can help one gain an edge over other candidates.
8. Check -all soft skills.
Over and above skills, knowledge, and a positive outlook today the ability to land a job post, the very first interview is body language and soft skills that one exhibits. Check the following boxes for the same-
- Speak with clarity of thought and mind, do not waste a prospective employers time. If you appear confused, the chances of losing points are high.
- Maintain a good posture, eye contact, and stay calm during the entire session. Never give away emotion of any sort.
- Speak with confidence and wait for your turn to communicate. Never barge in, put down the person who is talking.
- It is important to be self-conscious and that the environment around is entirely formal. This is applicable in the language used, the manner of dressing, and manner of conversing as well.
Bonus tip 9.
Stay abreast of all developments in your area of expertise. For this, do keep in touch via meets-up, grab opportunities to learn always. The moment a prospective employer catches wind of your honest and genuine efforts towards cracking an interview, success ceases to be elusive. No matter what you are efforts, ensure that it is a one hundred percent. Having to excel in an interview the first time and land a job that is desired is a culmination of efforts on all fronts. One has to constantly remind oneself about the fact the job environment is evolving and highly competitive.
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