10 Ways to NAIL a Job Interview!
Job interviews can be both nerve-wracking and stressful. The pressure of preparing and rehearsing on how to present yourself and how to answer the most common job interview questions can sometimes take its toll on you. But do you really need that pressure? Certainly not! Getting the job that you want will be easy if you know the simple facts there is to know during job interviews.
Here are 10 important ways on how to nail a job interview:
1. Prepare.
You must be fully prepared for your job interview. You must be equipped with all the necessary information that you need to know about the company and job requirement. Anticipate all the possible questions that might be asked, and prepare your answers beforehand.
2. Practice.
With your information properly prepared, practice your answers to possible questions. During the interview, while waiting for your turn, mentally practice your introduction and responses to the usual personal questions as well as questions about your resume.
3. Simplify.
When it comes to your physical appearance, simplicity is the key. Wear simple, yet professional clothes like suits, in order to impress your future employer with your ability to dress appropriately. Being clean from head to toe is another advantage. Make sure that your hair is properly combed, your nails are clean, and your shoes shined. Refrain from using loud accessories, as well as overpowering perfume or after-shave cologne.
4. Punctuality
If possible, be at the interview location an hour before your interview time. This will give you time to compose yourself and review your notes, and of course, practice mentally. When the interviewer sees that you arrived before your appointed time, this will reflect positively on your professionalism.
5. Listen
Listen carefully to the questions. Your answers will be based on how well you understand the questions asked. By listening carefully and attentively, you will be able to comprehend and relate to the questions, thus successfully give an acceptable answer.
6. Smile
Greet your interviewer with a smile. Remember that your future employment is in his/her hands. The first impression that you'll give can make or break you. By being pleasant and cheerful in a subdued way, the interviewer will assume that you are happy to be there and excited to be a part of their company.
7. Focus
Give the interview your undivided attention. Don't let your mind wander. Give the impression that you are physically and mentally present at the interview. By focusing and concentrating on what the interviewer is saying, you will be able to catch any question being asked, and any inquiries regarding your qualifications, skills, and abilities to get the job.
8. Sincerity
Together with honesty, your sincerity is as important as your job qualifications. Every company aims to hire people who are both loyal and effective. Do not patronize your interviewer. Too much compliments and praise would be considered fake and forced, as well as rehearsed.
9. Honesty
Be honest and truthful with your answers. Do not make up any skills and abilities that you do not possess. Do not sell something that you can't deliver. Falsifying documents and giving out fake references would reflect badly on you, and would influence future job applications.
10. Relax
Last but not the least, relax! Putting too much pressure on your self during the interview, will inhibit you to be at your natural best and would influence your spontaneity. Interviewers are fond of throwing series of unusual questions that will surprise you and catch you off guard. If you're stressed and nervous, your answers will surely show that. Keep your mind open and have a positive outlook on the outcome of the interview. As long as you do your best and be who you are, you will be on the right track.
With these 10 things in mind, you will have a better chance at getting the job you want. Let them serve as your guide and basis to every answer that you need to give. I hope these tips can help you take away your fears and boost your confidence so you can surely nail that job interview!
Jason Bettinger
PS. Did you find the above information valuable? Here are some other recent posts I have written on various topics! :
10 Things Every Father Should Teach His Son
9 Smart Tips to Stay Mentally Healthy
How To Build Lasting Customer Relationships
Konservator at Vardø Museum
9yI think your posture is also very important. Do not slough, be attentive and lean slightly forward when they are speaking.
Product Specialist
9yVery informative article. One thing NOT to do though is arriving 2hours early - BAD IDEA!
General Manager; SCD Technologies, Inc.
9yThanks, Jason - good and important information contained in your article.
Health Information Management Department Manager
9yVery informative!