Many of us will experience a good number of job interviews throughout our lifetime. From our first jobs to career changes midway through our working lives, they often don’t get any easier. We may feel nervous about making a good impression and trying our best not to embarrass ourselves or say the wrong thing. Luckily, while there isn’t one script that guarantees the best interview, there are a few tips and strategies we can implement in order to make a good impression and give us a better chance at securing the job. Take a look at the points below.
1) Research the company interviewing you
Unbelievably there are some people who go to interviews with barely a clue about the company they are interviewing for. Doing your research about the company and the role you are applying for will show the interviewer that you are truly interested in the role, and to be honest, this is the bare minimum expected. By understanding who you are applying to work for you will also have a better idea of if you even want to work for them at all and if so, what you can do for them and what they can do for you.
By understanding as much of the company as you can, you will be prepared for any questions they throw at you. You should even do research on the place you are being interviewed – whether it may take slightly longer to get into the building if there are extra security checks and such, or if you are given access to their room scheduler and can see where your interview will be held, preparation is key!
2) Dress to impress
The saying ‘dress for the role you want’ is true. If you really want this job, then dress like you would for it. Regardless if the job requires you to wear a suit or something more casual, keep a clean and tidy appearance, and this will give the impression of the sort of employee you would be for them. Turn up scruffy and all over the place, and this will give the impression that you are disorganised. Preception is key, so don’t give them a reason to question what you offer purely because of the way you dress.
3) Listen and respond
Your time and the interviewer’s time is precious, so don’t waste the allotted time waffling about irrelevant topics. When you introduce yourself, keep it brief and only elaborate when asked to while keeping it relevant. Interviewers will want to see some character, but also someone who is attentive and focused. It is ok to be yourself but just remember where you are and what your purpose is.
4) Send a thank you note/email
Most people treat the interview as a one-off event that is over once you leave the room; it’s not. If you really want the job, stay in contact with your interviewer and a great way to initiate this is by sending them a thank you email or note. Mention how you appreciated their time and effort speaking with you and if there is any feedback they could give you. This conversation alone will put your ahead in most interviewers’ minds and will certainly make you more memorable.