Are you in the midst of a job search? If you focus on positions you are qualified for, you should soon start receiving job interview calls. When it comes to preparing for this important day or days, keep these ten tips in mind:
Bring a Copy of Your Resume
This resume is for someone other than the hiring manager, as they should already have a copy of your resume. It is so that you can quickly reference your skills, training, and education. You also show a well-prepared and professional appearance when you have a resume handy to follow along with.
Dress Professional Regardless of the Interview
Professionalism is key when making a good impression. An excellent place to start is with your appearance. Whether you interview for an office manager job at a doctor's office or a cashier job at the local supermarket, professional clothes are ideal. Opt for a dress or a men's suit. A casual professional is sometimes okay; perfect clothes include a pair of solid-colored pants and a dress shirt.
Arrive 10 Minutes Early
All experts recommend arriving early; early is better than late. Ten minutes is an ideal amount. Should the hiring manager call you sooner than scheduled, you are ready and waiting. Arriving too early has its downsides as well, such as you may clog the waiting room or lobby.
Don't Chew Gum or Suck on Candy
Common sense; it is easier to talk when your mouth is empty. So don't chew gum or suck on a piece of hard candy. With that said, some individuals (myself included) find sucking on a complex part of candy soothing; they still don't do it!
Don't Ramble
When asked a question, such as a problem you overcame in the workplace, it is easy to ramble and get off track. Resist the urge. Answer the question. Please briefly summarize the workplace complication, how you overcame it, and stop. The interviewer does not need a 10-minute back-story.
Ask Questions Carefully
You always want to ask questions at interviews to show interest, the fact that you were paying attention, and so forth. You must ask these questions carefully. Don't seem uninformed. Base questions on information already provided during the interview (shows you were listening and are genuinely seeking additional information).
Don't Worry About Other Interviewees
It is common for a company to have a steady stream of interviews scheduled that day. In the lobby or waiting room, you may find two other interviewees waiting for their turn. It is only natural to gauge their appearance, wonder about their experience, and so forth. But won't this overcome you; focus on your meeting and yours alone.
Take a Deep Breath
Interviews can be nerve-racking. You want to do well, but it is only natural to assume the worst and think about the million what-ifs. Before heading in, take a deep breath and remember that all you can do is try your best.
State You Look Forward to Hearing From Them
At the end of the interview, you will thank the hiring manager for the job interview. Add in that you "look forward to speaking with them soon." This adds an extra bit of confidence. You aren't demanding an interview but are confident that the meeting went well. Hiring managers will typically make a note of this confidence.
Send a Thank You Note
Within 24 hours after the job interview, you should have a thank you note dropped off at the post office. Handwritten thank-you notes are more personal than emailed or computer-generated thank-you letters. Ensure this thank you note is short and addressed to the supervisor who conducted your appointment.
