They say first impressions last and we believe it’s especially true when having a job interview. According to popular opinion, the first impressions of an interviewer are usually formed within the very first 5-20 seconds of your meeting. The most stressful and nerve-wracking part of landing a new job for a recruit is typically the interview. Nobody wants to give a bad impression at the very first meeting, right? So how do you keep yourself from stumbling during an interview or making it a difficult experience?
An interview is the very first step where you can get the recruiting company‘s attention and standout among the pool of job applicants. Remember if you are honest and well-spoken when you answer their questions, then you’re off to a great start.
Here are 10 ways to prepare for an upcoming interview:
- Do your own research: It is very important to be familiar with the recruiting company before the actual interview. Learning about the company‘s products, services, customers as well as the competition will definitely give you an edge during this process. The more information you know about the company, the bigger the chance of selling yourself in the said interview.
- Look professional and sharp: In a recruit interview, you must wear your best interview clothes and make sure that they don‘t have any wrinkles or spots. If you feel good about what you are wearing, then the others will also feel good about you.
- Be well-prepared: Always bring a folder along with extra copies of your resume and paper to take down notes. Try to prepare yourself for the questions that they might throw at you and be smart in answering them.
- Be on time: First impressions last and you wouldn‘t want them to think that you are not an early bird, would you? Bear in mind that if you want them to consider you then you should never arrive late for your interview with the recruiting company. We recommend that you arrive at least 15 minutes before your interview.
- Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate your energy by ensuring you use a firm handshake as well as ensuring you make engaging eye contact. Speak confidently and maintain good posture.
- Listen: Be a keen observer and listener to them. Pause briefly when they’re done speaking to make sure they’re actually done talking and to also show that you think about what you say before you say it.
- Answer all the questions asked: If you are unsure with the question, then ask for further clarification. If you don’t know the answer to a question, be honest with them and tell them that you aren’t sure – but offer a way in which you might find the information if you were empowered with the challenge.
- Give specific examples: Give them examples of your background that will highlight all your successes as well as your uniqueness. They will think that your past behavior will be your future performance also as their new recruit.
- Ask questions: By this, you can let them know that you are interested in the job that they will give you.
- Follow-up: Conduct some type of follow-up regarding your interview 24-48 hours afterward. Write an email or send a personalized note thanking them for the opportunity.
All recruiting companies want to have the best asset for their company. To be one of the people that they are looking for, you must be prepared for the interview and standout among the rest.
– The Recruit Founders