Job Interview Preparation and Tips

With slowing economic growth and high unemployment rates, job seekers must be ready for rare and valuable job interviews. Applicants can send dozens of CVs, fill out hundreds of forms on job sites, and still receive no response. Therefore, preparing adequately for a job interview when the opportunity arises is becoming increasingly important.

What to Do in a Job Interview

Study the job description and highlight your experience and skills that make you a good candidate for the job. Thinking a little about what you've done in the past will strengthen your memory of how you were valuable in your previous positions. Focus on your most important achievements for your previous employers. Make a list of things you helped the organization move forward. For example, think of a time when you suggested a good idea for a product or service and it was implemented into the process. Writing these down beforehand will help refresh your memory when you go to the interview. Research the organization. Information sources are limitless thanks to the internet, so try to get as much information about the company as possible. Be prepared to ask questions about the company's history, current position, and future strategy. You should ensure that the company is a consistent organization. Dress appropriately. You might say "no way," but not everyone knows the importance of dressing appropriately for an interview. For example, if you are going for an office job, you should wear professional attire. If you are going for a blue-collar position, you should go with smart casual clothing that suits that position. For example, if you are going for a welding job interview, they won't expect a suit and tie; instead, a collared shirt in khaki might be good. You should also pay attention to your oral hygiene to ensure your breath smells good.

Arrive a few minutes early so you have time to get acquainted with the place and its surroundings.

Make a good first impression. First impressions last, so offer a firm handshake and look the interviewer in the eye. Speak in a clear voice, articulately, and without avoiding eye contact. The interviewer may understand that the candidate is nervous from their experience, but try to overcome your internal tension. Ask questions about the company based on your research. Try to learn about the company culture and the general work environment. Ask questions about who your predecessor was and why they left. The goal here is to find out if that person was promoted or left for other reasons. The last thing you want is to jump into a problematic position.

Answer all questions honestly and positively. Even if you parted ways badly with your previous boss, share the positive aspects of your relationship.

Try to provide as much information about yourself and your work history as possible. There will always be points where the CV or application falls short. Try to elaborate on your answers, but in a way that allows the interviewer to speak as well. Thank the interviewer and express your hope to hear from them. Shake their hand firmly, smile, and maintain eye contact as you leave. Follow up with a thank-you note. This may not seem like a big deal, but sometimes it's the point that separates two close candidates. Write a short thank-you note to the person after the interview and add a sentence or two indicating your interest in the job. After waiting a week or two, inquire about the status of the job from the interviewer. Let them know you wish to be kept informed about the hiring process. This is a guarantee that you are still interested and can apply for a new job if someone else is hired.

What Not to Do in a Job Interview

• Make sure your cell phone is on vibrate during the interview. If it vibrates, ignore it and do not take it out of your pocket.
• Do not ask questions about the company and its benefits – at least not at first. This will come later as the relationship develops. Try to get through the initial stage of the interview.
• Do not say bad things about your former bosses, colleagues, and employees.
• Do not chew gum during the interview.
• Do not ask personal questions to the interviewer.
• Do not let your confidence turn into arrogance.
• Do not tell the interviewer all your personal problems and why you need the job. Know that you want to be hired because you are suitable for the job, not because you evoke pity.
• Do not make very specific statements about the payment you want and your minimum salary. Whatever it is, say you will consider it, even if it is far below your desired level. Your goal is to get your foot in the door, prove your worth, and increase your value.
• Do not draw too many lines about what you will not do for the job. For example, do not say you will never work on weekends.