Interview Techniques That Work
The interview is your chance to really sell yourself to the employer. You have one opportunity to explain exactly why you are perfect for the position. You must speak intelligently, candidly and sincerely. In order to do so, you must be prepared. The secret to a successful interview is to present yourself professionally and to practice before the big day.
Before the Interview
- Make a list of common interview questions.
- Study the job description and tailor your answers to the position.
- Perform a mock interview with a friend. Practicing helps get the kinks out of your responses, and speaking the answers will help you learn them.
- Check out the company’s website and social media to gauge the office culture.
- Regardless of your gender, you must wear a suit. It is important to look your best and as professional as you can. Iron your clothes and shave. Some companies frown on facial hair, even stubble.
Questions About Your Experience
Interviewers will ask you questions about past jobs, such as your favorite or least favorite projects and supervisors. Speak honestly, but never bad mouth an employer. Focus on your accomplishments. The most important thing when answering these types of questions is to explain how your experiences will help you contribute to the company. If you performed similar duties in your previous job, use an example that highlights your qualifications.
Your Behavior and Personality
Another type of question focuses on how you see yourself and how you learn from your mistakes. You may be asked about your strengths and weaknesses. You should focus on qualities that relate to the position, and always choose a weakness that will not affect your work. You can consider a weakness as a way to explain a challenge and the steps you took to overcome it. For example, explain that you had trouble using Microsoft PowerPoint, until you recently took a training course.
Things to Avoid
If saying the right thing can get you hired, saying the wrong thing can immediately eliminate you from consideration.
- Don’t say anything unfavorable about your former co-workers, company or anyone you worked with.
- Never gossip. Not only will you look immature, but you never know if you and the interviewer share mutual friends.
- Try not to drink caffeine before the interview as the interviewer may be turned off If you are bouncing in your chair.
Posted: May 23, 2017
Category: Careers, Interviews
