How to Interview and Get The Job

Tired of interviewing and not getting the job? Well, as a recruiter I can give you tips on how to interview and walk away with a second interview or an offer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• black or blue suit, professional resume

1. Before you go into an interview it is important you've done the reasearch on the company. Make sure you know how long they've been in business,their products or services,competitors, and the direction the industry is going, etc. It is important the interviewer know you've done your research and you're geniunly interested in working for their company.

2. Wear a black or blue suit to the interview. These colors are the most appropriate and professional in most professional work enviroments. Women make sure your hair is pulled back if it is long. You should wear light make-up, and small stud earings. Gentlemen, make sure your hair and nails are groomed. Do not wear heavy cologne. You do not want the interviewer focused more on your cologne rather than what you're saying.

3. Make sure you arrive to the interview at least 10 minutes early. In addition, you should have two copies of your resume on resume paper. When you meet the interviewer make eye contact, smile and give a firm handshake.

4. Make small talk before the interview talk; this is called the ice breaker. Ask questions about the interviewer. You may want to ask where they're originally from, and how long they've worked for the company. If you see an interesting piece of art on the wall, you may want to ask where it's from. Small talk will help build rapport and comfort between you and the interviewer.

5. Once the actual interview begins, make sure you answer all questions confidently and honestly. If you show signs of uncertainty in your tone, the interviewer will have uncertainty about your abilities and credibility. If you have to think before answering a question make sure you look up. Looking up gives the appearance you are thinking. Looking down gives the appearance you are insecure and uncertain. If you get stuck on a qestion ask to skip the question and then return later. Also, your body language is important. Make sure you're not slouched in your chair, rather lean toward the interviewer in your chair because it shows you are engaged and interested.

6. At the end of the interview make sure you have questions to ask the interviewer about the position and more about the company. You need to show you are interested in knowing whether or not the position/company is a fit for you. Also, this will show the interviewer you are serious about the position and your career. You want to show you are looking for a company/position that fits your needs as well.

7. Here's the deal sealer! Ask the interviewer what are the key qualities they're looking for in a candidate. Once you hear the qualities, match the qualities you have to what was stated and make sure to tell examples. If you think the position will be a fit for you, don't be afraid...I REPEAT...don't be afraid to ask for the position! My favorite closing is "well based on the qualities you are looking for and my background I think I would be a great fit for this position, what is the next step in your selection process?". You will be able to guage whether or not they are interested based on the answer. You should be able to get a second interview or an offer if done correctly.

[PattiG]

on 12/23/2008 Awesome article! Excellent, specific advice for acing an interview.