Getting a Job - Interview Tips
Going for a job interview can be one of the most nerve-wracking events in adult life.
Say the words “job interview” to most people and they’ll remember sweaty palms, dry throats, and that mixture of fear and excitement.
No matter how outwardly confident a person might appear in a job interview, there’s every chance that they’re hiding their nervousness very well.
Preparing for a job interview is the only sure-fire way of calming your nerves. It’s always healthy to be a little bit nervous, simply because you don’t know what to expect.
The best thing you can do as soon as you realise you have a job interview for a certain job is to learn as much as you can about the company. The internet is an ideal tool to help you do this.
On a personal level read through the “person specification” and “required skills” documents that you might have received relating to the job vacancy. These can be enormously helpful and some even let you know that a specific skill will be assessed “during interview”.
Another good way to prepare for a job interview is to role play and get someone to ask you questions as if they were the interviewer or recruitment agent. There’s nothing wrong with rehearsing your answers as long as you do not recite them robot-fashion when you are in the actual job interview.
When you’re rehearsing your answers don’t forget to promote yourself in a positive light and don’t be afraid about letting your true personality come through. After all, you want your employer or recruitment agent to remember you.
On the day of the interview make sure that you have a good breakfast – a rumbling tummy can distract you from the job interview too easily – and don’t forget to dress appropriately. For most jobs this means that men should wear a suit and tie and women should dress in a suit and blouse. Make sure that your hair is neat and tidy and remove any facial jewellery. The only exception to this rule is if you are going for a very creative job such as designer or stylist but even then it’s best to tone your image down if you are very flamboyant.
Once in the job interview remember to keep a check on your body language. Don’t sit with your arms crossed or your head propped on your elbow, and make sure that you make plenty of eye contact. Don’t be afraid of silence, it sometimes helps to take a minute or two to think about your reply or what you’re going to say next.
When you are asked if you have any other questions, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification about anything that has been concerning you about the post or the company. Employers and recruitment agencies are keen to hear your ideas and thoughts too.
Don’t forget to thank your interviewer at the end of your job interview and offer a firm handshake.
Above all, try to relax. It’s not easy but it’ll make the whole process far more enjoyable.