A job interview is an avenue to meet new people, sell yourself and your skills. So, what are you expected to do before, during and after an interview?
Definitely, you need to project confidence, and stay positive.
Here are the 10 interview tips to help you land your next job as shared by Human Resources Consultant Adaora Ikwuemesi:
1. BE PREPARED
Find out about the company. Their vision and mission statements, products, services, core values, culture, dress code and the role. You may find these on the company’s website.
2. MANAGE YOUR NERVES
Everybody gets nervous. The best way to overcome this is to get to the venue early, at least 30 minutes before time.
You will have time to get familiar with the environment or even chat with the staff. You could say a word of prayer or encourage yourself. Take whatever measure the interviewer offers to calm you down.
3. MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT
This is an essential skill not just for interviews but for presentations, meetings etc. You never come out looking confident when you do not make eye contact.
If you are not up to it, you could look in-between their eyes or their noses. They likely would not notice.
You could practice before a mirror. If you find yourself in a panel interview, look for a friendly face and keep your gaze.
4. DRESS TO IMPRESS
Although dressing is a form of expression, it is also a form of impression. It is better to be overdressed than underdressed. You are more likely to be penalized for being underdressed.
Find out the dress code of the company if it is formal or casual. If the dress code is casual, dress business-casual; you will be making a good impression.
Women should avoid tight or revealing clothes, you would be distracting the interviewer.
5. MANAGE YOUR BODY LANGUAGE
The communication from your body may be different from what your mouth is saying. Body language speaks volumes and depicts energy levels.
Your hands and posture is something to be conscious about. Do not slouch, sit casually or drag your feet.
6. ANSWER QUESTIONS
Do your research on the firm and the role. Know the requirements for the role. Do not miss any opportunity to show how brilliant you are. Be concise and straight to the point.
7. ASK QUESTIONS
The Interviewer may ask “Do you have any questions for me?” Always have a question! You can ask about the company, its projection, the role and you can then determine how best you fit into the job.
8. SHOW VALUE
The Interviewer must see that you are more valuable than the next person. Give examples of your achievements in your previous employment and what you hope to achieve in the role.
Show that you are an asset.
Even if you have never worked before, show the values you added as member of a student association, team member etc.
9. SHOW RESPECT FOR PAST EMPLOYERS
You disrespect your previous employers by saying negative things about them. The employer could think you would do the same thing to them.
The interview is not the best place to say unspeakable things about who you worked for even if they are true. Always give notice to your current employer before leaving.
10. SAY “THANK YOU”
This is not just saying “Thank you” after the interview. Send a gratitude message via email after the interview.
You are not desperate and you are not begging. You are being courteous.
Thank them for the time they spent interviewing you. The firm would remember you. Even if you had a bad interview they could begin to reconsider you.
You may send the message the following day.
Reference:
- HR Nigeria Facebook Group