If you’re reading this you’ve more than likely overcome the first obstacle of gaining that all important job, be it part time, full time or just a zero hour contract, and with that, earned yourself a shot at an interview. But how should you prepare? And how well will you come across when you come face to face with the daunting and scary manager? Then the panic stations steam to red alert.
Fear not because solid support is on the way in the form of some pointers on how you can score some vital points in the Q+A and this meaning, that you’ll finally earn that much needed job you worked so hard for. From personality, to buzz words, here is what you should be doing right…
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail...
Know anything about the job you’re going for? Well you should, and this is the crucial first step on your road to success. Take time to research the company and feed your brain full of standout facts; this way, when the big boss man asks you what you know about the company, you’ll be able to fire stats back in his direction, only to their delight. Not only that, but make some notes to fuel your knowledge even more, and again, be sure that you know the role you’ve applied for. Finally, have some questions in your arsenal to shoot at the interviewer, as this gives off a keen interest to the company and job at hand.
Presentation is key…
It’s that time to whip out the suit again because when you rock up to meet with your future boss, you want to be looking the business. A smart, formal and professional attire will show that you’re very serious about securing the position and it never hurt anybody to be overdressed. Just imagine your rival interviewee’s turning up in a hooded jumper and a pair of trainers and think, who would you employee? And another great accessory to have (even if you don’t use it) is a note pad and pen. You’re ready to make notes if you need to and again, it boasts your professionalism and promise.
Attitude…
Get motivated for war because there is nothing better than walking into an interview with your blood pumping and adrenaline levels at a peak. On the journey to the meet, play a few tunes that’ll get your mood buzzing and then when you make the initial contact, the awkwardness will be suppressed. The handshake is vital, so approach it with a firm grasp and a genuine smile, then proceed to ask them about how they are and make general conversation until you come down to the actual interview. Make sure your personality shines through, give off enthusiastic, passionate and confident answers, and you can’t go wrong one bit. If you need to take time to think of an answer, do so, as you don’t want to be dribbling out an irrelevant, nervous answer that makes you come across weak.
Evidence and Relation…
When given a question along the lines of ‘what skills do you bring to the job?’, reeling off a list of your attributes is all well and good, but what proof have you got with the pudding? The best thing you can do is back up your facts and feed them with what they want to hear; this is where the buzz words come in. Refer back to past experiences, link it to life events and overall, make yourself look like your worth a million dollars because ultimately, you’re selling yourself over another bunch of candidates. What would you rather buy? A flat, unsweetened, opened can of soda that has nothing to offer, or a fresh, ice cold, bubbling can that has everything you’re after?
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