Interviews may be one of the most terrifying things we all experience – after all, a job interview determines our future in that moment. Whether you get the job or not – it is all decided in that 10 to 20 minutes of meeting your potential employer. Here are a few things that will help boost your chances into scoring your dream job… or just scoring through that interview. We’re listing out the things you should do before, during and after your interview.
Before The Interview
1. Know your facts
Research on the company that you are applying for. It is always good to know about what they do. Knowing about the company will give you that extra confidence – you never know, they might suddenly ask you something related to the company. So, be prepared!
2. Hide away your gadgets
Putting your phone away is very important. In this era, our phones are pretty much glued to the palms of our hands. Turn it off, and put it in your bag before you head in for your interview. No one wants to see you fidget with your phone, nor do you want them to hear that embarrassing ringtone that you’ve set for every time your mother calls. If you’re not willing to turn it off (we know, it’s a big step), then put it on silent!
3. Be on time
Never rush over to an interview – nor should you ever give the excuse of traffic or not being able to find parking. The matter of the fact is, you should be prepared – so leave extra early so you can avoid any other distractions on the road. But, don’t go to the interview an hour early – that will only make you look desperate. Be there 10 minutes early, that sets the right perception.
4. Prepare stationary and documents
Bring a fresh notebook, a pen and TWO copies of your resume. Why two? You never know how many copies they want from you – nor do you want the embarassment of having to ask them to photocopy a copy for you. Be organized. Also, be sure that your resume is up-to-date!
During The Interview
1. Hold your tongue
The moment you enter – be sure to be nice to everyone and anyone you see. You never know who’ll be interviewing you or who actually works in that company. So despite how frustrated or nervous you are, don’t lash out on anyone.
2. It’s all about body language
Body language is very important. The moment you enter, give them a solid and confident hand shake, smile despite of your nerves and also be polite and energetic. Also, don’t slouch. No one wants to interview a slug.
3. Stay professional
It’s always smart to stay professional through out the entire interview. Despite how nervous you are, try not to talk too much – but then again, don’t give one-word-answers. Keep your answers simple but show your confidence too. Don’t ever interrupt the person who is interviewing you.
4. Ask relevant questions
At the end of the interview, ask relevant work-related questions such as: office dress code, benefits, working time and when a decision is going to be made and when it is appropriate for you to follow up (this is if they haven’t already mentioned it).
After The Interview
1. Say thank you
The moment you walk out of your interview remember to write a thank you note and drop it in their pigeon hole. It may seem a little cheesy and old fashion but this is often overlooked as a gesture – it is great appreciated and highly noted by the potential employers.
2. Don’t brag on social media
Do NOT tweet, Facebook or blog about your interview! AT ALL! It may be a habit, but control yourself. We all know that the first thing a prospective employer does after an interview is to look up the interviewee on the Internet. You don’t want to be caught on Twitter nagging about your interview. This saves you a lot of embarrassment.
3. Follow up
Follow up if you haven’t heard back by the date specified during the interview. But do not follow up before that date. You don’t want to seem too desperate and annoying, do you?
