"Job hunting wouldn't be so bad if it didn't involve interviewing."
Have you ever felt this way? Employment interviewing can be enjoyable or stressful, but it is definitely unavoidable. You can make any interview more relaxing by mentally preparing for it and knowing how to impress the interviewer.
The following pointers are especially geared toward job seekers who may not be quite as experienced in face-to-face interviewing.
Be punctual and mentally prepared to interview.
This bit of advice might sound simplistic, but it's valuable nonetheless. Imagine the impression someone makes arriving five minutes before the interview--hurried and in a noticeably flustered state of mind. Even before the formal interview commences, he has a big strike against him.
As a rule of thumb, plan your arrival at least 20-30 minutes early. Allow time to "de-compress" from the trip to the interview site. Make yourself as presentable as possible before greeting the receptionist. Be cordial and relaxed in introducing yourself. Also be prepared to fill out any paperwork (such as an application) before meeting the interviewer. This is a sign of cooperation that any prospective employer expects of new hires.
Be enthusiastic and sincere.
Initial impressions are lasting. In the first 60 seconds, the interviewer will make mental note of your appearance, cordiality, and composure. Offering a smile and firm handshake, as well as addressing the interviewer by name, will score some points.
During the course of the conversation, the interviewer will be attentive to your communication skills and sincerity in discussing the job. If you aren't excited about the opportunity, there's nothing to be gained by faking it. On the other hand, if you are genuinely interested in the opportunity, mention that fact. This won't guarantee that you will receive an offer, but it will influence the interviewer's impression of you as a serious candidate.
Show that you've done your homework.
Hiring managers are eager to employ workers who show initiative. One way to demonstrate this is to inject into the conversation facts that you have learned about the company through your own research.
The starting point is to read everything you can about the company in the business press and on the Internet. Going beyond that, if possible talk to current or previous employees. They may have some insights to share that contribute to your understanding of your prospective new employer.
The questions you ask and comments you make will further indicate sincere interest in the position. Interviewers are turned off to candidates who merely parrot what they think an interviewer wants to hear. On the other hand, candidates who engage themselves in a heartfelt, mutually informative conversation impress them more as potential hires.
Make a convincing case.
Employers prefer hiring candidates who can "hit the ground running" and make an immediate contribution to the company. With every job there is, to some extent, a learning curve. But for experienced workers, the curve should not be that steep.
You can best make your case by documenting notable success in previous jobs similar to the one you're interviewing for. Don't just talk in generalities. Give specific instances in which you excelled in your performance. Furthermore, providing written references or other documentation to make your case will definitely enhance your candidacy.
Keep in mind, employers don't need a reason not to hire someone. Rather, they need a good reason to make an offer to the candidate who impresses them the most.
Mind your manners.
Interviewers appreciate candidates who
