The interviewing process is a common form of filtering candidates for a job, and used by almost every company in the world. This process can also cause many people to experience anxiety, fear, and many other quite unpleasant feelings. Well, we know exactly how that feels, and for this reason – we've decide to provide some guidelines to help you achieve success and impress your prospective employers:
The Preparation
The interview is, at many times, as simple as a game. It is a matter of preparing yourself as much as you can, and using that preparation to back you up in every moment of the interview. Having knowledge will also equip you with the required confidence to clearly communicate with the interviewer:
Research
The first step is to find out about the position you are applying, the company and the industry. Review your job application guidelines, and ensure you know every function required for the job. Determine the main qualities and skills you possess which are aligned with job requirements, and then you'll have an idea as to why you've been selected for an interview. Find out about the company's purpose statement, motto, goals and objectives and anything of importance that may have occurred in the past few months. Then research the industry, and check how the company positions itself, and what the current industry status is. If you can't find all of this, don't worry – simply try to get as much information as you possibly can.
Drafting the Interview
Drafting a plan of the interview is a common and effective way to prepare for the event. Primarily, you must consider what types of questions would be asked, and how you are going to answer those questions. Questions about your achievements, attributes, your previous job (or current), your previous company, referees, and why you want that job are common. Be prepared to answer them with confidence, and to be honest about everything. Also ensure you prepare any documents you may need during the interview.
Dressing Strategies
Dress according to the company's culture. If it is a formal business, be formal. If it is more casual, dress accordingly. Moderate options are usually preferred and suitable for any interview. Avoid wearing excess jewellery, colourful clothes, or having too much hand baggage (in fact, any unnecessary items).
Logistic Plans
Find out the exact location and time of the interview. If it is a distant location, ensure you have reliable transportation options – or include an alternative option in case of an unexpected event. Plan yourself to arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to the interview time. Whatever you do, DO NOT BE LATE!
The Interview
Once you have meticulously prepared for the interview, your confidence should give you a nice push. Now it's time for action.
Body Language
The body language is, in many occasions, the most prominent element of the interview. Remember that the interviewer is trained, and most likely is aware of various body language signs. First, adjust your posture – look professional and confident, but not too relaxed. Being nervous is part of the process, and most employers expect (and even sympathise with) the feeling. Try to keep direct eye contact at most times, especially when the interviewer is talking. Crossing arms, looking away, making repetitive movements are signs of excessive nervousness, lack of attention and defensive behaviour. If you are too nervous to handle it, talk about it with your interviewer and, most likely, he will understand it. Finally, body language in an interview can be a game of power. Employers usually use certain postures to reflect that, and they mean to. Ensure that, in this game, you are always a notch below your interviewer.
Spoken Language
Conversation is the part of the interview in which you should know what to say, when to say and how to say it. First, do not interrupt the interviewer when he/she is speaking. Second, be clear and concise in your answers – you want to promote yourself, but not too much. Third, remember you are communicating with someone else, and not 'throwing information out' – try not speaking too slow, neither too fast. Fourth, avoid excessive small talk. Sometimes you'll be induced to chat in order to 'break the ice' (and most likely in the beginning of the interview) – let the interviewer conduct that process.
When asked about your previous (or current) job, do not include bad remarks about the employer or the company. If you do not understand any question or point, ask the interviewer to clarify. Ultimately, remember that you are ready for this, and that the whole process is relatively simple.
Finishing the Interview
After the conversation has reached a point of mutual satisfaction (you have provided all the information the employer wanted), there are some things you can add to the interview. Expressing your interest for the position (if you are very interested) is an option – but do not beg for it! You can also ask about feedback from the interviewer, or when you can expect to be contacted. Do not discuss salary or further position details unless the topic brought up by him/her. Remember also that a job should be mutually satisfying to you and your employer, so go prepared with queries you may have regarding the position (but be careful not to interview your interviewer). Finish up with a nice smile, a firm handshake and thank your interviewer for the time spent with you.
Pedro Gondim is a writer and publisher for the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. The Institute is Australia's largest counsellor training provider, offering the internationally renowned Diploma of Professional Counselling.
[tags]Business, Interview, Communication, Jobs, Career, Employment, Body Language, Speech[/tags]