Interviews are sometimes your one and only chance at making a good first impression and sell yourself as a viable candidate for a job. Spending a bit of time and effort preparing for the interview can be the deciding factor in whether or not you make it to the next round, or get the job. Learn to plan for success, approach the interview properly, and avoid common mistakes in job interviews to give yourself the best chance of getting a fresh start.
- Research the Company
Before you get on the ‘hot seat’, find out as much as you can about the company. This is much easier than you think. You can look at past press releases, check articles on events the company has hosted, look for nonprofits they support, and even speak to a current or past employer at the company. Your goal here is to speak on the company like a person who is genuinely interested in the job position. If you sound like someone who just Googled the company before entering the interviewer’s office, you are very unlikely to leave good impression.
- Pay Attention to Your Body Language
Regardless of how much you practiced or how qualified you are, wrong body language can completely beat your perfect answers and professional outfit. The body language is a more powerful tool than you can imagine, so use this to your advantage. Instead of letting bad body language ruin your chances of leaving a good impression, learn how to send the right messages through movements and expressions.
- Take Part in Your Interview
Many people mistake the purpose of the interview with answering questions. Surely, this is a big part of getting the position you want, but keep in mind that the interview requires for both parties to take part.
Do not be afraid to ask questions. Do not be afraid to interview the interviewer. Ask questions regarding the working hours, the company’s expectations of you as an employee, future opportunities, etc.
If you ask these questions, you are showing the interviewer that you are taking the position seriously. Taking this approach makes it hard to reject your application.
- Know yourself
Remember the first impression is the last impression. Demonstrate your capabilities and qualities and how well you can serve them. Don’t be overconfident and aggressive. Research yourself, ask yourself what your objectives are, what short-term & long-term goals you have, know your CV and prepare your answers.
- Social networking
Sites like Facebook, Linkedin, etc. can be used for work opportunities and converse with other people improving your interpersonal skills. You can learn a lot about the company over on online networks and blogs. You can visit Linkedin company page and employee profiles, corporate blogs and accounts on facebook and twitter.
