How to Ace Your Next Interview
When it comes to job interviews, there’s a ton of information out there chock-full of advice, do’s and don’ts, tips and examples. It can be intimidating and in some cases just make you more nervous to remember every snippet of knowledge you studied leading up to the big day. We’ve boiled it down into 7 simple pointers to really help you ace your next interview.
Be Yourself
Never adhere to what you ‘think’ is the perfect personality for a role. Not only will you feel uncomfortable, the interviewer will be able to tell you aren’t being genuine. Just be yourself and your confidence and positive energy will do the job!
Eye Contact and Body Language is Important
Non-verbal cues are just as important as what you say. When you are approached by the interviewer you should stand, smile, make good eye contact and shake the potential employer’s hand. And on the topic of handshakes, make sure you do not have a limp handshake and certainly not a bone crushing handshake, but a firm handshake using the entire hand. When an interviewer goes to shake an applicant’s hand and they offer just their fingertips or when an applicant doesn’t stand up when being approached by the interviewer, this makes for a terrible first impression. Confidence and high self-esteem are two qualities every interviewer looks for. Sit up straight in your chair and don’t fidget too much to show you are alert, interested and invested in what the other person is saying. That being said, don’t have your phone out (leave it in the car or somewhere out of sight) and don’t have bags or drink cups that can easily be fumbled. Be ready to be greeted by your next employer!
Research the Company and Position You’re Applying For
Knowing the current happenings and history of the company will allow you to ask approproiate questions and really show that you’re invested and interested in the job. By studying the job description, you can discuss previous work experience that pertains to exactly what they’re looking for.
Study Your Resume
In any interview it’s your mission to convince the interviewer that you can come in and do the job. You need to know your resume like the back of your hand. Speaking intelligently about your previous experiences is one of the best ways to nail your interview. Always bring a copy of your resume, too.
Build Rapport
First impressions truly are everything. Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and happy smile. Perhaps even make a comment about the weather or ask how he or she is doing. These seem like simple things but can go a long way.
Provide Concrete Examples
You have to prove that you really are hard working and skilled enough to do the job well. Providing examples of this from previous work experiences is the best way to do so. Don’t leave it up to the imagination—provide detail!
Follow Up Quickly
A hand-written note is the best and most personal way to follow-up thanking someone for their time. If you can’t obtain a mailing address, an email will suffice. Send it quickly and include that you look forward to hearing from them.
You’re certain to ace your next job interview if you prepare by adhering to this advice. Check out our LinkedIn for even more tips, job postings and more!
