My first couple of interviews
right out of school were terrifying. I had no idea what to wear, what to say,
what was expected of me in any way. The only experience I had was of waiting
tables and babysitting. I was totally overwhelmed and badly needed guidance.
Here are the top five tips that would have helped me immensely.
1. First
impressions are key. While it may seem trivial, what you wear is incredibly
important. Corporate, financial and professional opportunities may call for a suit as expected interview apparel, while start-ups or tech
companies have a more laid-back vibe. It is important to know the culture
of the company and to dress in a way that shows that you fit well within that environment (while still demonstrating your most sophisticated presentation). When you show up
in polished business professional apparel, the
interviewer will know you're serious about pursuing the opportunity. The
essential thing is to be neat, professional, current and conservative.
No plunging necklines, no tank tops, no open backs. And watch the
cologne/perfume levels. You want to impress, not suffocate your interviewer. Just as
important is showing up on time. Not an hour early, not late. 15 minutes early,
tops. You want to respect that you scheduled an interview at a specific time
for a reason. Make eye contact, speak clearly, smile, shake hands and smile. Be
confident – you are a great candidate and you're there to tell them exactly
why.
2. Remember
your audience. There are plenty of hiring managers that are very good at making
you feel at ease in your interview. But no matter how at ease you feel,
remember that this person is evaluating you on your level of professionalism
and poise. Now, I'm not saying don't be yourself. But be the most intelligent,
pleasant and composed version of yourself there is.
3. Be
prepared. Look up the company at which you're interviewing. Do your
research. You want to be sure that it's a company for which you WANT to work. An
interview is about deciding whether it would be a good fit for both parties.
Bring a hard copy of your resume, whether or not you've sent a digital copy. Bring a
pen, take notes. Show that you're interested!
4. Prepare
questions. I know that this goes along with my previous tip but I feel like
it's big enough to deserve its own section. When I've asked potential
candidates if they have any questions, and they don't have any, it seems to me
as though they are just passively accepting any information and haven't done
any research. While you're researching the company and reading over the job
description, think of a couple of questions that are relevant to your potential
positions and the company itself. Feel free to ask what your day-to-day duties
would be like. Ask what your biggest challenge is going to be. But do not tune
our your interviewer to try to come up with questions while they talk. Engage
in a conversation with them and bring a couple of questions with you to show
that you're engaging with the information already provided to you. Remember
that this is also your moment to figure out if the position is right for YOU as
well.
5. Follow
up. I won't deny that there are some candidates that I was lukewarm
about when they left an interview, but with followup emails or phone calls,
they grew on me. Those few words - “thank you for your time” or “I appreciate
the opportunity” show the hiring manager that you are still interested after
your meeting and you cared enough to take the time to reach out and show
gratitude for the opportunity. It doesn't take very much of your time, but it
could increase your chances of getting the job.
- Katie Berryann, Technical Recruiter
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