Unfortunately the increasing job cuts due to the global credit crunch means a lot more people will be going through the interview process for fewer jobs, so it stands to reason that those who are better prepared for the interview question and answer game (because that's all it is a game!) stand a far better chance of landing that dream job.
Now job interviews are always stressful, even for seasoned job seekers who have gone on countless interviews.
The best way to reduce the stress is to be prepared. Take the time to review the "standard" interview questions you will most likely be asked. Also review sample answers to these typical interview questions. Then take the time to research the company. That way you'll be ready with knowledgeable answers for the job interview questions that specifically relate to the company and industry you are interviewing with. Your task in the interview process is to make the HR manager (or the interviewers) job as easy as possible, do that and it will be a walk in the park!
Many of the interview questions they will ask you are to be expected. I have listed a couple of the more common ones below that people seem to have problems with, study them and plan your answers ahead of time so you'll be ready to deliver them with confidence.
What Are Your Weaknesses? This is the most dreaded question of all. Stay away from personal weaknesses like "I'm a manic depressive' and go towards professional traits, especially ones you are actively working to overcome like 'my design skills aren't great' (do not use if you are going for a job as a designer!) But then emphasis that you are taking action to improve this skill, for example 'to get over this I am taking a course on Photoshop'.
What is your salary expectation for this job? Here they are looking for two things, one can they get you on the cheap and two have they got the budget to be able to afford you! The answer should always be fired back at the interviewer, 'I'll need more information about the job and the responsibilities before I can discuss salaries but can you give me an idea of the range you have budgeted for?' This will put them on the back foot and should give you some valuable information on whether or not to continue with the interview.
A couple of final tips. When you give an interview answer always try and answer in the positive rather than the negative (especially avoiding negative comments about past employers).
Maintain eye contact with the interviewer at all times, don't look down at your shoes when searching for an answer.
Try and make time to rehearse your questions and answers with a friend before the interview, as they say 'practice makes perfect'.
Dress for success, it is far better to be over dressed for an interview than under dressed (it shows you are making an effort).
