The best way to ace your next job interview is to prepare for it. This may sound obvious, but it's not. Too many applicants walk into an interview without knowing as much as they should about the industry, the company and its problems. Remember: You are there to solve a problem. Otherwise, the company wouldn't be hiring. Follow these steps:
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Punctuality – It is said that first impression is the last impression and if you get late for your interview than your chances of getting the job are reduced. Aim to be early - you can always find a nearby cafe/shop/pub to wait in. And if worst comes to worst and you are going to be late, then definitely ring in and let them know.
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Research the company and the interviewer - Get information about the company from employer’s website or other sources prior to the interview. Feed them the opportunity to talk proudly about something positive you have found.
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Talk about the job- "The interview is not about the candidate, it's about the job.it is taken by a company just to fill a position. Hence, talk about the job as much as possible. Only occasionally talk about yourself and only to show how you suit their requirements."
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Manage your attire- Dress professionally in simple business attire. SMILE!. A firm hand shake and proper eye contact are key to a successful interview. Send the right message by standing straight, moving confidently, and sitting slightly forward in your chair.
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Write down and practice possible questions- Reviewing the job description will help you customize your answers by addressing the specific needs of the organization and requirements of the position to your skill set. Also practising some obvious questions with someone will boost your morale. Ask yourself, "If I were hiring someone for this position, what would I want to know?" Then answer those questions. And be ready for tough ones, too. Think of the worst questions you could be asked about your experience and abilities, then prepare positive responses.
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Show your research- Print out a couple of pages from the company’s website and place them on top of the folder in which you take your resume. Let them know your research.
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Be gracious- Politeness must reflect in almost all of your actions. If someone gets you a cup of coffee, thank them, Give the receptionist or the last person you see a cheery goodbye etc.
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Be honest- There is no point lying about one’s skills or background. Job interviews are about matching needs - if there isn't a good match, then chances are that the job won't work out.
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Know your strengths and weaknesses- Instead of boasting that you are a perfectionist Try to find an area of your experience/skill that is currently lacking. An interviewer will appreciate your candour - as long as whatever you disclose can be easily remedied. Also you must know properly your accomplishments of previous jobs as well as your strength. Think in terms of the value you can add to the position and the company.
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Carry a spare photo and C.V. with you.
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Positive attitude- Don’t criticise your previous employers or say negative things about them. No matter how bad your last job or boss was, there's probably something good you learned from the experience. Emphasize the positive -- with a smile.
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Don’t talk too much-Communication is a two-way thing so give others a chance. Talking too much reflects that you are not a corporate professional. So keep your answers short and to the point.
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And finally, Don't give up! - The fact is that you will not be offered every job however perfect you think you may be for it. Usually it's because the interviewer was completely blind to the talent that stood before them. However, just on the off chance that it was not, feedback from interviews where you have been turned down can be invaluable for improving future results. Ask politely if they can give you any feedback for the future - there's a job out there for you somewhere.