Preparing for a job interview

Preparing for a job interview

For most people, attending a job interview is one of the most stressful aspects of looking for work. In this article I aim to offer some tips which I hope will help to reduce levels of stress.

First of all, if you have reached the interview stage, you know that your prospective employer must have been impressed by your application. You will most probably have the appropriate formal qualifications and experience or perhaps they have seen something else of interest. When you receive the email, letter or phone call inviting you to attend an interview, you should immediately acknowledge and accept the invitation. If, however, you have already accepted another job, you should politely decline and explain that your situation has changed. The world of work can be a small one so it’s important to make a good impression whenever you can.

Now you have the date in your diary you need to be prepared. There are many simple things you can do to ensure that your interview goes as smoothly as possible. First of all, you need to make sure you have researched the organisation. Spend some time looking at the company’s website as your interviewer is likely to ask you some background questions. It’s a good idea to have questions of your own prepared as well as this shows interest and initiative. By questions, I don’t mean ‘How much will I get paid? How many weeks’ holiday do we get?’ but ‘What plans do you have for expanding into the Asian market?’

First impressions are very important. Research has shown that decisions are made within seconds of meeting someone. You want to fit in and be seen as someone who’d be an asset to the team so dress appropriately. If you’re applying for a job in a financial institution, wear a smart suit. If you’re hoping to work in a more relaxed environment, you can dress in a more casual way but always look neat and clean.

Walk the office with confidence. Shake hands with a firm grip and make eye contact. When you sit down, don’t cross your arms and legs as this makes you look defensive. Don’t play with your hair or jewellery. Take deep breaths and speak calmly and clearly.

Finally, there’s nothing worse than being late. Make sure you know exactly where you’re going. If necessary, try the route beforehand so you know how long the journey will take you. Leave home in plenty of time so that you have a few minutes to relax and collect your thoughts when you arrive.

So, good luck and remember that every interview is good experience so don’t worry if you’re not successful the first time. It could be that the job just wasn’t the right one for you.