The job market is a battle field and your job interview is like a clay mine waiting to be stepped on. In order to avoid the dreaded explosion, outwit and outrun your opponents, impress your future employers and snag that much coveted position, you have to not only know how to find a job but ace that interview as well.
A Week Before: Practice Makes Perfect
When preparing for the interview, steer your way to make-believe land and pretend that you are already being interviewed. Have a long list of sample questions, face the mirror and ask yourself these or you can ask a family member or friend to be the interviewer. Answering questions in advance will help you think of the perfect and most profound response. It will also prevent you from getting caught off-guard by your interviewer that’ll leave you staring at the ceiling looking for the right answer. This also allows you to check if you have annoying mannerisms or facial expressions you need to get rid off. You can also gain constructive insights from your friends and family on how to find a job and go through the job interview process smoothly.
When preparing for the interview, you must already have your clothes ready, shaved your beard or gotten a new haircut hours before. Don’t go into a panic make-over minutes away as this will increase your anxiety level and cloud your brain. Also, make sure that you get enough sleep! You don’t want to face your interviewer looking like you’ve just done drugs. Groom yourself by brushing your teeth, applying on some deodorant and spraying on some fresh scents on the day of the interview. When you are good to go, make sure you know where the venue is and what time you have to be there! Getting lost and losing the opportunity are the last two things you would want to happen to you!
The Interview Itself: Make a Good Impression
When you enter the room, smile and greet your interviewer. Do the firm handshake, but don’t crush his hand! Remain standing unless you are told to sit. This shows that you are the type of person that can follow directions. When you’re finally seated and the ball starts rolling, maintain eye contact. Don’t let your eyeballs dart on all corners of the room, unless you want to look like you’re having seizures. Be attentive too. Nod your head when you understand something, but don’t overdo it. If you have questions and clarifications, you may ask. But never make the mistake of asking about the salary or company benefits and privileges first. That’s just plain rude. You’re not even hired yet! Speak clearly and firmly. This will not only prevent your interviewer from getting confused, it also shows that you’re confident. Answer directly to the point. Don’t be chatty and proceed telling him about your whole life story. Remember, this is a job interview, not a talk show!
How to find a job is perhaps the most difficult question you have ever asked your unemployed self, but you’ll be surprised to know that there are more mind-boggling questions come interview time. Just be prepared, be at your finest and hope for the best!
