The interview is the second stage of the selection process of candidates. If you received a call for a job interview that means your application documents were well written. However, as for preparing and writing a CV, preparing for a job interview takes time. It is a unique opportunity to introduce yourself to the employer in more detail and in the best possible way.
What to wear for a job interview
Men should avoid jeans, shorts, and sneakers. A suit is optional, but let your business look include a long-sleeved shirt and pants. A neat hairstyle and beard go without saying. Women often have to obey a larger number of dress codes than men. If you decide on a skirt, it should never be above your knees, pants should not be too tight, and a blouse or shirt should not be transparent or have a deep neckline. Also, both men and women should pay attention when choosing shoes.
Get to know a potential employer
Gathering relevant information about the company or organization you want to work for is an integral part. Employers justifiably assume that you already know enough about them as soon as you apply. Even if you didn’t manage to get some information about the company, don’t try to find out more during the interview. The employer will immediately see it as unprofessional. But you can ask relevant questions about the position you are applying to.
Show that you care
You need to show interest in both the specific job and the employer who called you, whether you are out of work or whether it is just extra work for you. Show that your business ethic is in line with this firm’s vision and mission. You need to show that you are the best person for the job and that the benefits of your employment are mutual – both for you and your employer.
Practice answering questions
You need to be prepared for possible questions. The job interview has a clear structure and flow that is generally determined by the employer or the interviewer. Although you may not know in detail how the job interview will unfold, you can still assume a good deal of the issues relevant to the job. So, it is possible to anticipate and prepare for different scenarios. Preparation allows you to present yourself in a better light. It will make the whole process easier for you, especially if you are a graduate or student looking for your first job.
Strive to be flexible
Instead of wasting time trying to think through specific questions to the smallest detail, think about possible problems and general questions. This will make it much easier for you to adjust your answers during the interview and to get better at different questions.
How to introduce yourself at a job interview
Be at the interview venue 10-15 minutes early. Treat all the people you meet at the company as professionally and courteously as possible. Chewing gum, the smell of cigarettes, and keeping your cellphone tone on, are things that make a very bad impression. During the interview, listen carefully to everything your interviewer has to say.
Body language
Be aware of your non-verbal communication. It is not pleasant when anxiety, nervousness, confusion, and the need to present yourself well are revealed in a non-verbal way during the conversation. Of course, some anxiety, and even discomfort, is no surprise to anyone, because the job interview itself is a stressful situation.
Skype interview
When it comes to job interviews, they can sometimes be done via Skype. To prepare yourself for the Skype interview as much as possible, you must follow these rules:
- test the picture and sound before the interview
- if you are using a laptop, make sure you have enough of battery life; even better, keep the laptop on charger
- inform the household about the interview so that they don’t go into the room in the middle of the interview
- dress up elegantly
- choose a bright, monochrome background
- prepare questions for the employer
- practice answering questions
- take care of non-verbal communication
Almost all the rules that apply to a classic interview apply to a video interview as well, so don’t let yourself be too relaxed just because you are at home.
