How to Do Well at a Job Interview
Interviews can be nerve wracking experiences, but you can succeed and impress hiring managers by being prepared for whatever comes your way. A successful interview takes more than just being qualified for the job. The key to doing well in an interview is showing the interviewer that you're self-assured, knowledgeable and that you look the part -- professional.
Instructions
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Dress the part of a confident professional. Don't waltz into the interview room in jeans and a T-shirt because nobody will take you seriously. Wear a tailored suit in a conservative color such as navy blue or black. Your clothes should be wrinkle-free. Be well-groomed, get a hair cut and avoid wearing heavy perfumes or colognes.
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Maintain good posture. Sit up straight in your chair and don't fidget.
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Make good eye contact with your interviewers and project your voice. Don't shout, but keep an even tone and be sure that you are heard. Speaking softly and avoiding eye contact signals to interviewers that you lack confidence.
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Bring samples of your work if you're interviewing for a creative position. Make sure that your portfolio and your resume is up-to-date.
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Prepare answers to some of the most common questions such as why you would like to work for that company, what your goals are and why you left your last position.
Read the company's website, and see where you could fit in. Read their case studies, the latest issues affecting the company and its industry, and if possible even research the people who will be interviewing you. -
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Prepare questions to ask at the end of the interview. Interviewers are impressed by potential employees who have thoughtful questions. You may want to ask questions about the company's future goals, the kinds of training you'll receive as a new hire and what the company culture is like.
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Don't ever complain about past employers or coworkers. Keep your comments positive even if you left on bad terms. If you are asked about the past, just say you're grateful for the opportunity you had working for that company and all the things you learned on the job.
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Tips & Warnings
If you wear facial jewelry, remove it.
Never wear the same clothes/ makeup you would to a night out with your friends.
Remember that the interview is as much an opportunity for the employer to get to know you, as it is for you to see if you think the company will be good for your career too.
As mentioned, never badmouth anyone you have worked for, under any circumstances.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
