Presenting yourself in a job interview is crucial. The way you present your professionalism and individuality may impact the final outcome. So, once you are shortlisted for an interview, there are mixed feelings (the feeling of being elated to get interview call as well as we experience anxiety or fear of failure).
To reduce your worries and make it a normal affair for you, we present a few tips in this blog post:
The Basics
In any case, you have to ace the interview and show the best of your personality. Always keep in mind that you have to sell yourself in front of the interview board. Show your qualities, why you are an ideal match, and what makes you the best choice for the opening. Research about the company, their work and functions, and most importantly the impact of job for which you are being interviewed.
Dressing For The Interview
There’s always a way of presenting yourself, which can impress the interviewer. Though, every interviewer does not focus on your clothing only, but your appearance makes significant difference in the beginning. It is advisable to be in the formals if the job role requires it. However, its best to define your dressing theme based on the industry and position you are being interviewed for.
Be In Time
In order to grow as a professional and make your impression as a serious one, being on time is a mandatory parameter. If you establish yourself as a person who values time, you are far ahead from others. However, you are advised to be in time for your interview. Reach at the venue at least 15 minutes before the given time. So that you can relax a bit and complete other formalities if any. Reaching early might give you an idea about the competition too (if you communicate with other candidates who are there for the same thing).
Speak Professionally
During the interview, talk to the panel professionally. Don’t talk the way you talk with your friends, if you do this, you may seem immature. If required, practice at home or conduct mock interviews with help of friends or other professionals in your extended circle.
Body Language
Your body language speaks for you when you are silent. The way you sit, the pitch of your communication, your hands movement when you explain something, all this explains a lot about you. It can be decisive factor for the interview. Learn to smile when you talk, it will exhibit your positivity.
Listen Before You Speak
Listening is an art and not everyone can do this. If you are going for an interview, you have to learn this art. If you listen properly, and take a pause before answering to the queries asked by the interviewer, you’ll have some extra time to think about the answer you are going to give.
Ask Questions
Asking counter queries is a good way of learning more about what exactly the company needs from you. It is helpful in showing your enthusiasm and also provides you another chance to answer if you fail to answer at first chance.
Success or failure in the interview is always in your hands. It’s not just your skills, academics, and experience that helps in cracking the interview, but the time you spend during the interview is also the decisive factor. You need to do your homework well and follow the tips given above. You’ll certainly find yourself far ahead from others in the queue for same position.
I am an Entrepreneur, Angel Investor & CEO @ Optizm Global, the Right Fit Recruitment & Placement Agency. I am also Executive Director of TiE SoCal, a non-profit, global community welcoming entrepreneurs from all over the world. We believe in the power of ideas to change the face of entrepreneurship and growing business through our five pillars: Mentoring, networking, Education, Incubating and Funding.
