It is common to get jitters before going for an interview. But if your nervousness is getting the better of you at interviews, this article is just what you need to read! Whether it is your first interview or the fifth one, getting hired is no walk in the park. It is for this reason that you need to have some job interview tips and tricks up your sleeve.
Here’s how you can crack the next interview and successfully end your job search!
Tip #1 – Read up on the company you’re going for an interview to
You don’t want to be caught unawares at the simplest of questions like ‘Do you know what we do?’ It is for this reason that you need to read up on the company that you’re going for a job interview to. Take to the internet and read about what the company does, what it expects from you, what is the company’s agenda, and why they are looking to hire someone for the position you’re applying to. You will be able to find a lot of the above information on the company’s website itself. While you are at it, keep a lookout for any recent ventures or mergers that the company has been a part of and try incorporating that in your answers. For instance, comment on the new article that has been put up or a new product that the company has launched. This will not only show that you have done your homework, but it will also prove that you are genuinely interested in the company.
Tip #2 – Sell yourself well
Why should the company consider hiring you out of all the candidates that have applied for the position? Answer this question by making a list of all the skill sets you bring to the organization. You might think that knowing Microsoft Office like the back of your hand is common nowadays, but you still need to mention it. See how can you illustrate your abilities while keeping the company’s requirements in mind. Show your hiring manager that you possess the abilities to do the job well. For instance, if the company is keen on communication skills, point out instances where you used your communication skills effectively. This could include elocution competitions, events, and even mock parliaments. Try coming up with at least 5 selling points before heading to a job interview. Concentrate on your strengths and accentuate them. If you are applying for a media company, let them know that you are updated on current affairs and closely follow the news.
Tip #3 – Prepare for commonly asked questions before your job interview
Though every interview may not be the same, there is a list of commonly asked interview questions that are found in every corner of the internet. Go through them and tackle the questions you think may be asked in your job interview. The interviewer might ask you questions like – why did you choose our company, what interests you about this job role, where do you see yourself in 5 years, and why should we hire you? Prepare answers to these beforehand so that you don’t fumble during the interview. For instance, if you are studying medicine and you are applying to work at a pharmaceutical company, explain to the hiring manager that you want to work with them because you want to see the practical application of your theoretical course.
Tip #4 – Connect with the interviewer
One of the blunders that most people commit in an interview is not interacting with the interviewer beyond a certain point. Interviewers are humans too. Focus on forming a connection with them. Take on a friendly tone while talking to them. This will instantly make you feel comfortable and you will obtain an edge over the other candidates who have interviewed for the same position. You can use the interviewer’s name while talking to her/him. Make sure to maintain eye contact and smile when you can. Try finding similarities between the two of you. For instance, if the interviewer has a book on her desk, ask her if she is liking the book. Interviewers generally select those candidates whom they have taken a liking to.
Tip #5 – Interview the interviewer
You must have noticed that interviewers always ask if you have a question for them. This is because they want to gauge how much you have understood and how interested you are in the position. Having a question or two up your sleeve will earn you brownie points. You could inquire about the kind of person they think is the perfect fit for the job. Or ask about the work culture and ethics that exists at the workplace. You could ask them about their upcoming projects or details about your day-to-day responsibilities. Refrain from asking about the stipend or benefits until the interviewer brings it up himself.
Also, remember that turning up late to an interview will not help you create a favorable first impression. Keep the above-mentioned job interview tips in mind and you’ll be putting an end to your job search before you know it!
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