After sending a resume to a prospective employer, you may be called for your first of probably two or three interviews. The initial interview is critical because that is when the employer will likely decide whether to hire you and how you might fit with the company. This step is crucial, and you need to be prepared to enhance your likelihood of a successful interview and eventual job offer.
Before you even step one foot in the door of your prospective employer, you should completely research the company, its background, corporate goals, top executives, and anything pertinent to the position to which you have applied.
Additionally, knowing the background of the company and what you are going to be doing for that company will help you prepare for questions that will be asked of you. It would be time well spent to practice answering test questions with a friend or family member so you are able to provide confident, knowledgeable answers during the interview that make a positive impression.
When you show up on the day of the interview, it is best to arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes prior to the planned starting time. An early arrival shows you are punctual and that the job interview is important to you. You should be prepared with a couple extra copies of your resume in case additional people sit in on the interview, and you should always carry copies of any documents that they may require, such as certifications or school records.
Make sure your attire and general appearance reflects the standards of the company. It is best to show up in business appropriate clothing that is clean, ironed, and sharp looking. You do not want to be wearing excessive makeup or jewelry; and for a man, you should be clean shaven and neat.
If, for example, this is a "suite and tie" company and you come to the interview in jeans, you might as well cancel the interview altogether. By looking professional, you show you are ready to blend in with their business needs. Maverick thinking may help you land a great position, but a maverick appearance will not!
On meeting the people who will be interviewing you, it is best to smile at them directly, greet each with a firm handshake, and offer an enthusiastic hello. The more upbeat you are - without appearing contrived - the more apt they are to be drawn to you.
Always maintain good eye contact with the person who is interviewing you during the meeting. You do not want to appear intimidating, however, so occasionally look away when they are speaking with you. Conversely, you do not want to keep looking up or down because they could mistake this for dishonesty or disinterest. (You may be surprised by what is surmised from a person's body language.)
Lastly, when the interview has concluded, make sure to shake each person's hand again and thank them for their time. State how interested you are in the job and that you look forward to hearing from them. A brief follow up thank you letter to each person for their time and interest in you will not hurt your chances either.
Though following these tips certainly does not ensure you will be hired, they do help to maximize the positive impression you make on hiring decision-makers!
Job Interview Tips Questions
First, make sure your job resume is in good order. You can hire a professional resume writer if you want a great presentation or study some online resume writing tips if you want to have full control over your CV.
Once your resume is out there, the next thing you should do is prepare for possible interviews. Here's where a little career planning is in order and so here we present not just a few but TWELVE job tips you should know before you face your interviewer for that manager job.
Job Interview Tip #1 - Know the Company.
It is good business etiquette to know as much as you can about the organization to which you're applying. If you are quizzed about the company's history it's paramount you know something about them to prove you're serious about work for them. Your manager job description will be tough to live up to if you know nothing about the people with which you want to work.
Job Interview Tip #2 - Prepare for Questions.
Our second interview tip is crucial. Be prepared to answer questions about the company and about yourself. There's nothing more awkward than being stumped, flustered, and speechless. Avoid saying "Uhh" or "Ahhh" too much. Answer confidently by being knowledgeable about yourself, your goals, your skills, your achievements and what you can bring to the table.
Job Interview Tip #3 - Prepare Your own Questions.
Employers are impressed if you ask good, intelligent questions. Ask about work processes, quality control, common challenges within the company, and others. Demonstrate that you really want to understand the nature of your work so that you can function better in the organization.
Job Interview Tip #4 - Look Good.
You must be well groomed when showing up for an interview. Get a haircut if you need one; buy a new suit if your old one looks too tatty. Take a bath (heaven forbid you don't!) and iron your clothes. If you're a woman, wear moderate make-up, make sure your nails are manicured, and tone down the perfume. You don't want to make the interviewer choke as he/she takes a whiff of your scent!
Job Interview Tip #5 - Be Punctual.
Tardiness is bad and will immediately put a damper on things. Leave early so you will get to the office early. Don't waste your interviewer's time by showing up late. If you really want that manager job, you must demonstrate responsibility and be determined to keep appointments.
Job Interview Tip #6 - Shake Hands Firmly.
A good handshake shows you are confident and willing to engage. Always make eye contact when shaking hands; this coordination can accomplish much in establishing positive vibes.
Job Interview Tip #7 - Don't Overdo It.
Avoid unnecessary body movement; don't fidget. Keep still and punctuate your points with limited hand gestures. Don't ever point your fingers, especially at the person talking to you.
Job Interview Tip #8 - RELAX!
Many people panic at interviews and start biting their nails, toying endlessly with their wedding ring, drumming their fingers, or jiggling their legs. Stay calm, breathe deeply, and think of happy memories. Don't worry yourself sick about something that can be dealt with positively if you just take time to relax.
Job Interview Tip #9 - Listen Closely.
Pay attention to what is being said. Maintain eye contact, especially when it's obvious your interviewer is making an important point. Focus on the discussion at hand and keep your ears peeled for important details. If you mishear a word, don't be afraid to clarify rather than pretend you understood what was said.
Job Interview Tip #10 - Communicate Clearly.
Speak clearly and choose your words carefully. You may want to make a humorous comment but what if it backfires? Also, don't be obscure - use words and ideas that make sense and can be easily understood. Avoid being superfluous.
Job Interview Tip #11 - Don't Ever Talk Negatively. About Your Current/Previous Employer.
This is very important - don't be negative, especially when it comes to your previous employers or colleagues. It will only show that you have a tendency to bad-mouth other people and that's not something to advertise when gunning for a manager job. Always be positive and enthusiastic.
Job Interview Tip #12 - SMILE!
Smiling is important so pay a tremendous amount of attention to your teeth. Make sure they're immaculate and presentable. If you have discolored teeth (and most of us do), try a good tooth whitening product. There is a whole range of home tooth bleaching products to choose from that are effective and inexpensive; teeth trays are highly recommended.
You may not realize it but teeth bleaching is a powerful way to capture a person's attention and admiration - and could very well lead to that manager job you so highly covet.
Both Mort Ferguson & Ashley Truitt are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Mort Ferguson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Careers and Job Hunting, Interview Questions and Cover Letter. For practical information, see www.job-hunting-careers.com, a popular site providing insights concern. Mort Ferguson's top article generates over 40500 views. to your Favourites.
Ashley Truitt has sinced written about articles on various topics from Fitness, Wedding Photography and Disease & illness. Ashley Truitt empowers men and women to increase their Wow Factor through personal development and image makeovers. A dazzling smile radiates warmth and success! Visit
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