Most people feel pressured when they're interviewing for a job; you know, sweaty palms, increased heart rate, fidgeting. It happens to all of us at one point or another. However there are tips that will help you get through an interview at least appearing to be calm and collected.
Check Out the Company
Don't get caught unprepared. Learn as much as you can about the company before the job interview. Take the time, in advance, to search the Internet to discover as much information as you can about the company, its products, management and culture. This means going to their corporate websites, Linked In, Facebook and Wikipedia. General searches will also uncover interesting links that can reveal what the corporate culture is. Many companies will have (multiple) blogs and some will have Twitter and Facebook pages. Because you need to be efficient in your research, you want to make sure you cover a general overview for the first interview and then go deeper if you are called back for subsequent interviews. Being well prepared means you will be able to answer interview questions as well as ask the interviewer questions to find out if you and the company and its culture are a good fit.
Practice Interviewing
Taking the time to review typical interview questions you will probably be asked during a job interview will help give you a framework for your responses and will help calm your frazzled nerves. With practice, you won't be scrambling for an answer while you're in the interview hot seat. Ask a friend or family member to help you. When you're practicing, it's not about memorizing answers, but having the main points at the top of your mind so that under stress, you can (1) remember the point and (2) present it logically and articulately. The interviewer knows you're nervous, but he or she wants to hire someone who's confident – the best person for the job.
Dress for Interview Success
The first impression you make on a potential employer can make a big difference. The first judgment an interviewer makes is going to be based on how you look and what you are wearing. That's why it's always important to dress professionally for a job interview. Regardless of the job you're applying for, it's important to dress for success. Conversely, it's also important not to overdress. At a job interview, proper etiquette dictates that your manner of dress should fit in with the scene around you, but to show your respect for the occasion you need to dress just a step above the norm of that environment. The reason is because inappropriate business attire creates an unacceptable distraction. The focus should be on you and your skills, your clothes shouldn't be stealing the show.
Be on Time
There is no excuse for being late, none! You don't want a your interviewer to be annoyed before the interview even starts; so do whatever it takes to be on time. A job interview isn't a party, so arriving casually late won't score you any points. Like anyone at work, your interviewer is most likely in the midst of a busy workday, so show them their time is valuable to you. Being late tells others that you're self-centred, disorganized, rude or all three. Make sure you show up at least 10-15 minutes in advance and notify reception upon your arrival.
Don't Discuss Money
Until you've been offered the job, it's often best to defer all discussions relating to money. Ideally, a job interview will focus on whether you're right for the position. It's not uncommon though for interviewers to bring up money so be ready to handle the question. When you're asked for salary history, tell the interviewer you'd rather not discuss it at this time. If asked what salary you expect you can explain that you are looking for a good fit with opportunities for advancement. If you name a figure at this point, you might either price yourself out of the job if your figure is too high or unnecessary limit your negotiating position if you name a lower figure.
There you have it. The top 5 best job interview tips you'll ever get. Stick to them and you'll be on your way to getting hired!
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