How to Ace a Face to Face Job Interview
Being able to ace a face-to-face interview can make the difference between being the person who applied for the job and the person who gets the job. For many, a job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. There is no easy way to become an interview pro since it takes time and dedication to increase your communication skills and lower your interview anxiety. By following basic guidelines, even the most anxious applicant can improve his interview skills and learn how to showcase his qualifications to a potential employer.
Instructions
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Prepare. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a job candidate should research the organization, be prepared to describe your work history, and practice communicating this information with a friend or loved one. Boston College's Career Center suggests writing out answers to potential questions as a means of preparation.
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Be early. It's a well-known fact that first impressions are very important. Showing up late or rushing through the door frazzled is not the way you want to present yourself to a potential employer. Get the interview off on the right foot and arrive fifteen minutes early.
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Speak clearly, enthusiastically and sincerely. Use proper English, refrain from mumbling and bring a sufficient level of enthusiasm to the conversation.
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Promote yourself and your specific qualifications. During an interview, you want to showcase your expertise, skills and talents. Highlight your successes and promote yourself throughout the interview, according to "During the Interview," a Boston College Career Center publication. Be prepared to describe how you dealt well with specific situations in the past and go beyond broad comments about your qualifications.
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Use your resume. Chances are the person interviewing you will have a copy of your resume in front of her. Frame responses to the interviewer's questions around your past experiences. If possible, try to explain how past opportunities and employment relates to the job for which you are applying.
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Ask questions. Harvard's Office of Career Services suggests that you ask the right questions rather than waiting for the interviewer to ask. Be proactive about the interview.
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Do not self-eliminate. Avoid asking questions about the number of warnings you get before you are fired, number of vacation days or job-sharing possibilities. Questions like these suggest a reluctancy to work hard. Focus on the position and not on the details.
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Listen. Listen closely to each question the interviewer poses and maintain eye contact throughout the interview. Listening skills are important for many jobs. Rather than telling the potential employer that you are a good listener, demonstrate it by staying engaged, focused and respectful throughout the interview.
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Close the deal. Before shaking the interviewer's hand and thanking him for his time, end the interview on a positive note. Communicate that you are excited about the possibility to work for their company, comment that you and the company appear to be a good fit and ask about when you can expect to hear back from them.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not smoke.
Do not chew gum.
Come dressed in business professional or casual attire.
Maintain good posture throughout the interview.
References
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