Interviewing for a new job or special assignment doesnÕt have to be an experience that makes your palms sweat and your tongue stutter. You can keep your cool, look professional and gain the competitive edge to win the job by following a few simple interviewing techniques. Before your next interview, consider these recommendations:
1. Dress the part
If you are interviewing for a corporation, dress conservatively to be on the safe side. If the company is an art studio, advertising agency or cutting-edge business, you have the freedom to dress more creatively, but still professionally. Pay special attention to shoes (are they shiny or scuffed?), jewelry (avoid flashy or excess), heavy perfume (an interview turnoff), excessive makeup and what you carry (sometimes a coat, umbrella and purse can hinder a smooth entrance and handshake).
2. Arrive on time
Late arrival is unacceptable!
3. Use a firm handshake
A weak handshake indicates lack of confidence and indecisiveness.
4. Greet the interviewer by surname; pronounce it correctly
Mispronouncing a name gets you off to a bad start.
5. While seated, maintain straight posture and stature
Avoid slouching, fidgeting with your hands or touching your hair. These things make you look disinterested and/or unprofessional.
6. Be organized
Your portfolio should be in order. Remember to bring along extra copies of your resume and references.
7. Sell yourself
It starts with a firm handshake, eye contact and a friendly greeting. Stress any special awards or recognition you have received. Talk about your promotions. Mention what you have learned in your career and why you enjoy it.
8. Don't chew gum
You would be surprised at the high number of interviewees who forget this important tip.
9. Watch it
Don't look at your watch during the interview. This could be misinterpreted as a sign you are anxious or ready to move on.
10. Don't interrupt
Find smooth ways to blend your points into the conversation, but definitely avoid stepping in too quickly while the interviewer is talking.
11. Think ahead
The smartest interviewees think ahead and prepare answers to the top questions they expect to be asked. Consider, for example, how you would respond to questions such as:
- Why are you leaving your present position?
- What are you looking for in a job and, specifically, from this company?
- What are your career objectives?
- What were the biggest accomplishments of your most recent job?
- What are your biggest overall career accomplishments so far?
- How do you work under pressure/deadlines?
- What kinds of people do you like/not like to work with?
- How do you follow through on projects... what is your process of organization?
- What are your biggest strengths/weaknesses?
- Where do you expect to be in 5-10 years?
- What features of your most recent job did you like the most/least?
- What interests you most/least about the position being discussed?
12. Emphasize teamwork
Companies prefer to hire team players; people who work well with others. Give examples and show how you incorporate the ideas, needs and contributions of others in what you do.
13. Show your value
Tell the interviewer what you can bring to the job that others cannot. Illustrate the reasons why you are the absolute best person for the job.
14. End with a warm "Thank You."
Within a day or two, follow up with a letter saying thanks for the time spent with you; include your continued interest in the job. Leave a positive lasting impression. Avoid being too insistent.
