Interviewing for a job is very much like being on a blind date and meeting someone for the first time. You do not know what to expect. However, the formality of a job interview is much greater than an initial social meeting, but the idea is basically the same. The purpose of a job interview, regardless of its nature, is for a prospective employer to have the opportunity to meet with you in person or to speak with you on the telephone in order to compare you to other potential candidates who are also applying for the same position. This is why I highly recommend that your resume and interview preparation be made in advance. Keep in mind that resumes containing grammatical errors are almost always immediately rejected, as well as showing up for your job interview late and inappropriately dressed can also validate a pass on your candidacy. Notwithstanding, the following is an outline of useful tips to help can become a more confident applicant in your face-to-face or telephone interview.
TIPS - FACE-TO-FACE
• Make sure to practice interviewing prior to the interview. Perhaps you can have mock interviews and involve your family or friends to help you practice your techniques.
• Do not leave your cell phone on. Make sure that your cell is shut off prior to entering the office.
• Know your 30 second pitch. At some point, you may need to explain why you are a perfect fit for the position.
• Dress for the job you want.
• Try to articulate your words and sentences as best as you can. Try to avoid saying any slang words or phrases, such as “Yeah – instead of Yes”; “You know”; and “Umm”.
• Make sure you conduct your due diligence about the company before the interview. If you do not know enough about the company, this may turn off to the interviewer.
• Do not talk too much about yourself and how great you think you are. Allow the interviewer to talk and take the lead.
• Don’t forget to follow up by sending a thank you note by email or letter.
Alternatively, if you live in another state where the employer is located, some companies may opt for an initial telephone interview as phase 1 of their interview process. If a telephone interview is requested, please do not assume that it is less challenging than a face-to-face interview. Though a telephone interview may alleviate some anxiety about what to wear, there are still several guidelines I suggest you follow to help you conduct your telephone interview in a more professional manner.
Tips For Job Interviewing Continued..