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How do you present yourself to a potential employer? Should you take the logo gifts or logo apparel at a job fair? These are just some of the many questions that people ask themselves when trying to find employment. How do I prepare for the interview? This brief guide will help you be a successful interviewee.
Before you even show up for the interview, you should make sure you are prepared for it. Learn all you can about the company. Otherwise you’ll end up looking ignorant or desperate. Putting the effort into learning about the company before you’re even part of it lets interviewers know you’re serious and willing to work hard to succeed. You should also go over your qualifications for the job, and make sure that you have decided on a specific job or jobs that you would like to be hired to do at whatever company you are applying to. Get ready to answer hard questions. Have someone practice with you. Make sure you can give detailed and concise answers. Tell about past experience if you have any. Also be ready to answer the difficult broad questions like “Why do you want this job?” and “Why should I hire you?”
Personal appearance is very important when you actually have the interview. Remember this is the first impression you will make on the employer, and it is the first impression that sticks with someone the most. Dress appropriately. Don’t overdress. Make sure you are tidy, and avoid chewing gum or smoking. Make sure you arrive early for the interview, but if you are too early your employer might be put off. Be polite to everyone. Shake firmly and be enthusiastic. You should try to avoid colloquialisms when you speak. While you are being interviewed, maintain eye contact with the interviewer, speak clearly, and remain upbeat. Wait to ask about job benefits or salary until after you have been offered the job. Body language is very important. Sit up straight, and use of a little but not too much hand motion can let the employer know your interested in the position.
After the interview, be sure to shake hands with the interviewer and thank them. Send a thank you note. Bringing information with you to the interview is often a very good idea. Bring your official ID, either a driver’s license or social security card. Bring a resume to the interview too. Although you may not need it, it is good to have it for your own personal reference and to show that you are prepared for the interview. Make sure you have a list of at least three references and be sure that they are all going to give you good references.