Hot Tips to Win a Job Interview

Getting a job is a stressful process: once you’ve impressed the potential employer with your resume and cover letter, you must prove your worth at a job interview. This stage is intimidating because you do not know what to expect from the interviewer. Luckily, we have a list of useful tips to help you win the competition and get your dream job.

Prepare Beforehand

• Carefully read the vacancy description with a particular focus on the responsibilities you will have to perform. This will help you understand what skills and experience the hiring manager expects you to possess.
• It is a good idea to know beforehand how many people will interview you. Use LinkedIn, Google search, and Facebook to learn their names and positions.
• Don’t skip your lunch, but do not overeat. Excitement and hunger will give you a rumbling stomach. Also, avoid unpleasant smells, like that of garlic or cigarettes.
• Don’t be late! It’s better to come ten minutes earlier to get used to the surroundings and concentrate on what you are going to say.
• Mind your clothes. The best option would be to find out what the company dress code is. If not, choose something formal.

Your Appearance

• Trivial as it may seem, your handshake can speak volumes about your personality. Weak handshake creates an impression of a weak person. So, try to make your handshake strong and not too long.
• Be relaxed, but sit straight. Don’t show your excitement. Beware of appearing indifferent and arrogant, though.
• Keep the eye contact. Remember to look at all people in the room.

At the Interview

• Do not hurry with answers. If you need time to mull over the question or simply do not understand it, ask them to repeat or say you need some time to think. It’s always better to show people you think before speaking than regret half-hearted answers later.
• Your self-presentation should not be a mere repetition of your cover letter. The interview is an excellent opportunity to create a positive impression by mentioning the details, which could not be explained on paper. Include additional information.
• Be pro-active. This means asking questions about the position you are willing to occupy. Good questions will show your preparation and full understanding of what is expected from you.
• After asking a question, listen to the answer.

Avoid Asking These Questions:

• Ill-timed questions, like “When will my trial be over?” This is not important now.
• Do not start with the question about your salary. If you don’t want to give the impression of a person who only needs money from the position, this question can wait until the final interview or the day, when you will be discussing working conditions.
• Things like, “How many employees do you have?” or “Do you have a department that specializes in…” is something you can learn from the company’s website.

To Make the Interview Go Easier

• Try to look professional.
• Stay friendly, but demonstrate your own point of view.
• Keep track of all “I” you use and try to make them “We” instead.
• When negotiating your salary, focus on the common interests and goals.
• Be prepared to unexpected questions. Try to stay calm when something goes different from the scenario.
• Whatever happens, maintain the positive tone and don’t get irritated.
• Focusing on money entirely means ignoring such aspects as working conditions, career prospects, and other perks and benefits, which are crucial.
• Be open-minded and ask questions.

And the final tip, remember that provided the interview is successful, you will have to devote much of your time to this job. Therefore, job interview is also your chance to understand whether this position is really something you expect. Stay calm and confident, and you will succeed. Good luck!