Business
If there are any documents or paperwork that you must bring with you, prepare these before the interview.
Updated : Mar 18, 2018, 03:21 AM IST
Prepare paperwork and documents
If there are any documents or paperwork that you must bring with you, prepare these before the interview. For instance, you may want to show the interviewer a project you’ve done in the past. You may have a portfolio or samples you’d like to bring with you to the interview. Go through these things and ensure that they’re updated and ready to go.
Research the company
Visit the company website and start taking notes. Get information on corporate officers, the latest press releases and the company's annual report. Gather as much information as you can on your soon-to-be-employer. Know what they do, and develop some idea as to how the position you are hiring for fits within the company. And do prepare and practice for the interview, but don't memorize or over-rehearse your answers.
Write down any questions you may want to ask
It is really easy to get caught up in the excitement of an interview, so be sure to jot down any questions you may have for the interviewee prior to going in for the actual sit-down meeting. This may include questions to do with benefits, pay ranges, and so on. Also make sure to write down the questions in order of priority as you may not have enough time to get to all of them.
Interviewers always ask “So, what questions do you have for me?” Saying nothing looks bad. Think of at least one smart question to ask, even something as simple as “What’s an average day like in this job?”
Practice with a friend. It may feel silly to sit on the couch with a buddy and talk about your career aspirations. But doing a mock interview can help relax you – because now, you know what to expect.
Go to sleep early
It is the night before the interview and everything is set. It is important that you get a good night sleep so that you go in for the interview relaxed, wide awake, alert and fully prepared to answer any question confidently. So set the alarm and sleep comfortably in the knowledge that you are as prepared as you will ever be.
Get the right look
An interview is a performance with people playing different roles and you will be judged according to the look you present to others. First impressions matter, especially when it comes to something really important like a job interview. Do dress the part for the job, the company, the industry. Whether you're female or male, the conservative business suit is the recommended attire for any interview. Since you have a very short time to make a good impression, make sure that the suit which you will be wearing is wrinkle free, has a fresh look and your clothes are properly ironed. Get a proper shave and a hair cut before the interview. Proper grooming will do wonders to your look. Check your shoes and polish them if needed. Have you checked you nails? Do they need trimming? And finally, remember to put on a little perfume or cologne. Remember to brush your teeth, use proper amount of mouthwash, and have a breath mint right before the interview.
Be on time
Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.
Stay calm
During the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Take a moment to regroup. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention - you will be embarrassed if you forget the question!
Show what you know
Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for. Don't say anything negative about your past job or about anyone. Don't talk too much; let them talk too. Be direct and concise, and don't give extra information unless you know it will help you. You can answer their question and then ask a question of your own so the process will feel more like a dialogue than an interrogation for all concerned. Keep a sense of humour, don't show you're annoyed if an interviewer looks bored, or tired, or whatever.
Thanks giving
Send a thank you note to each person you’ve interviewed with and the search committee chair. After you have accepted a job, take time to thank everyone who has been helpful in the process.