Job Interview Preparation
Job Interview Preparation
If a job applicant manages to land a job interview, it indicates that the employer has at
least some interest. Typically, an applicant responds to an advertised job opening,
providing a resume and other requested materials. The employer or a representative
reviews all received applications, and decides who should be invited back for an
interview. In some cases, a preliminary interview may be held on the phone, to save
resources and time for both parties.
Depending on the size of a company and its organization, an applicant may only have
one job interview. This is common with small businesses, in which candidates are often
interviewed directly by the employer. In other cases, a representative of the human
resources department may interview a candidate first, and then he or she will go
through a series of interviews with potential supervisors and other personnel. Larger
companies may also have interview panels with multiple members who cooperate to
make a decision.
Coaching for job interviews can get quite extensive. As a general rule, it is a good idea
to dress neatly, as though you are dressing for work. In addition, it helps to be
organized and well put together. It helps to be able to answer questions about material
on your resume, for example, and it is an excellent idea to put together a list of
questions of your own. After a job interview, it is conventional to shake hands with the
interviewers, and to follow up with a thank-you letter to keep your face fresh in the mind
of your potential employer.
What
to take
It’s no surprise that a strong interview is a determining factor in securing a new position.
The more prepared you are, the more confident you will be - resulting in a better
outcome.
To ensure you put your best foot forward we have outlined some common interview
faux pas to avoid when facing the pressure of a job interview.
So, what are the top five things you should always do before or during an interview?
1. Do your homework
Preparation is the first essential step in the interview process, so don’t let yourself down
before it’s even taken place. Researching the company you are meeting with will show
your interest in the business and give you an upper hand. Look at their website and
what’s happening in the news to widen your research and see what the media is saying
about the company. Don’t limit your research to this alone - make sure you research the
background of your interviewers, including their career history and specific
achievements.
For a video interview, minimise technical issues by testing your video tool the day
before your interview, on the day of your interview, ensure you are set up and ready to
go at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time, in a quiet and comfortable place.
You won't have the luxury of being able to offer a firm handshake or make eye contact
with your interviewer, so the best alternative is for you to smile confidently and appear
interested and engaged.
Looking the part is also important and you can rarely go wrong wearing a well-fitting
suit. The amount of care you take in your presentation is a sign of your interest in the
role and your seriousness in making a good impression.
Now you know what you should do, what are the top five things you should not do at an
interview?
NOTE: You can do some research online for the sample answers but
make sure that you can use those as reference. Try to construct your
own personal answers that would fit to your personalities and abilities.