When the time comes that we have successfully guaranteed an interview there are certain things which we have to follow and keep in mind if we aspire to actually get the job.
Time Management
Any potential interviewee has to be aware of the deadlines and necessities which take place before the big day. Everyone has their own personal agenda but some staple ‘to-do’s’ include having enough time to investigate the place of employment, create focused questions which may be asked, role-play, and secure a sharp looking outfit alongside other personal requirements outside the interview.
It is important to be mindful of how much time an interviewee will be granted. Job fair meet-and-greets can take place within a time span of only a few moments while more formal interviews could be 15-30 minutes or longer. Make sure to answer questions directly and that all ‘stories’ are relevant and make a positive point about a personal skill or experience. Additionally, being a great communicator means actively listening to what another person is saying. Do I listen or simply wait to talk?
Be Prepared
Once we have our calendar updated actually do the requirements. Scout out the interview location’s address and make a dry run there. How long will it take to get in traffic by car or bus and where are the personal parking spots? Investigate the job position and know the ins and outs of what the details are. If we have never held the position before, this research provides a great opportunity to match skills and experience we already have to it. The interviewer will be testing to see if homework has been completed so prepare questions which may be asked, role-play with a friend or family member, and read over the company’s website and their competition’s. Prepare 2-3 challenging questions which you are interested to have answered about the company that you cannot find the answer to on the website. Finally, be sure that the business formal interview day outfit is clean, pressed, and fits appropriately.
Body Language
On the interview day, body language is as important as mental preparedness. Demonstrate success all around from every inch of ourselves. Make sure cell phones are completely turned off before we touch the office door handle. The business formal outfit should not include too much perfume or cologne but nicely shined shoes are definitely a part of the attire. The entire day should be devoted to smiles and strong, firm handshakes. Be sure to say a kind hello to the receptionists and people within the halls – anyone could be a big boss or their eyes and ears. When we are in the interview, keep fidgeting to a minimum without being frigid and if inside we are nervous and anxious fake confidence but not arrogance.
The Follow Up
When the interview is over make sure to smile and kindly thank the person for their time. Pay attention for a designated time frame when an answer will be given about the position. Do not call and ask for an answer about the position unless directly told to do so but do be sure to send a follow up email or thank you note for the interview that is short and sweet – only 3-4 direct sentences. The best thank you notes can be framed within a 5x7 picture frame. It depends on what type of industry the job position is in on how aggressive the follow up calls and emails should be but ultimately if they are interested the contacts will call, pick up the phone when called, or answer an email. Email is less intrusive for many hiring managers now and less is best in regards to follow up actions after interviews.
Remember – keep looking for other positions at other companies while interviewing for this specific one. They may be silly enough not to hire us!
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