JobEx -Research Desk

Tips To Face Interviews

It is important to appear confident and cool for the interview. One way to do that is to be prepared to the best of your ability. There is no way to predict what an interview holds, but by following these important rules you will feel less anxious and will be ready to positively present yourself.

Appearances Count

Before the interview, select your outfit. Depending on the industry and position, get out your best clothes and check them over for spots and wrinkles. Even if the company has a casual environment, you don't want to look like you slept in your clothes. Above all, dress for confidence. If you feel good, others will respond to you accordingly. Your clothes and accessories should be conservative and neutral rather than wild and loud. Your clothes are your packaging and should not take attention away from the product.

Be on Time

Never, and we mean NEVER arrive late for an interview. Allow extra time to arrive early in the vicinity, allowing for factors like getting lost and traffic. Enter the building 10 to 15 minutes before the interview.

Do Your Homework

Find out a little bit about the company before the interview and learn as much as possible about its services, products, customers and competition. This will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the company's needs. The more you know about the company and what it stands for, the better chance you have of selling yourself. You also should find out about the company's culture to gain insight into your potential happiness on the job.

Be Prepared

Always carry a folder with extra copies of your CV, Photographs, Degrees, etc and also a paper to take notes. You should also have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview.

Nonverbal communication

These sometimes convey stronger messages than words:

Your Posture
Stand and sit erect. We're not talking ramrod posture, but show some energy and enthusiasm. A slouching posture looks tired and uncaring. When you stand, make yourself as tall as possible: shoulders back and head held high.
Eye Contact
Look the interviewer in the eye. You don't want to stare at them like you're trying to look into their soul, but be sure to make sure your eyes meet frequently. Avoid constantly looking around the room while you are talking, because that can convey nervousness or a lack of confidence with what is being discussed.
The Handshake
It's your first encounter with the interviewer. If they holds out their hand and receive a limp, damp hand in return -- not a very good beginning. Your handshake should be firm -- not bone-crushing -- and your hand should be dry and warm.
Your Hands
Gesturing or talking with your hands is very natural, but keep it in moderation. Getting carried away with hand gestures can be distracting. Also, avoid touching your mouth while talking.
Don't Fidget
There is nothing worse than people playing with their hair, clicking pen tops, tapping feet or unconsciously touching parts of the body. And don't underestimate the value of a smile. In addition to the enthusiasm it expresses to the interviewer, smiling often makes you feel better about yourself.

Listen

One of the most neglected interviewing skills is listening. Make sure you are not only listening, but also reading between the lines. Sometimes what is not said is just as important as what is said. Answer the Question Asked Candidates often don't think about whether or not they actually are answering the questions asked by their interviewers. Make sure you understand what is being asked, and get further clarification if you are unsure.

Give Specific Examples

One specific example of your background is worth 50 vague stories. Prepare your stories before the interview. Give examples that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Your past behaviour can indicate your future performance.

Ask Questions

Many interviewees don't ask questions and miss the opportunity to find out valuable information. Your questions indicate your interest in the company or job

Follow Up

Whether it's through email or regular mail, the follow-up is one more chance to remind the interviewer of all the valuable traits you bring to the job and company. You don't want to miss this last chance to market yourself.