Even though we’re not in a recession anymore and the economy seems to be turning around, getting a job is hard. There are millions of people constantly applying for jobs all over the country. Interviews, one-on-one or in groups, happen daily. If you’re just starting out and are in search of a job, the interview process can be intimidating. These kinds of things can be stressful.
First thing that you should do when preparing for an interview, is be aware of what you’re wearing. It may seem shallow, but employers will judge you on your appearance. Having a clean, professional appearance will greatly benefit you in an interview. The old saying, “Dress for Success,” is very relevant when it comes to interviews. If you can find out the company’s dress code policies before the interview, you should adhere to those policies.
When you’re in the interview, the next big thing for you need to do is to listen. Don’t over talk in an interview. As soon as you sit down, start listening. You want to remember all of the information about the job and company that the interviewer gives you. Most of the time in an interview, the interviewer will tell you what there are looking for in a potential employee.
Be aware of your non-verbal and verbal communication. Be professional in all your communications. Don’t slouch, or frown. If your face naturally looks mean/irritated, try to practice an easy smile. Don’t be guarded, or abrasive. Don’t be too cocky either. There’s an area in between confidence and modesty that you want to land within.
Practice answering question before the interview. With a quick Internet search, you can pull up potential interview questions, and practice answering them. It may seem silly, however, practice makes perfect. Preparing for an interview can be a daunting task. On top of that, the process itself can be extremely stressful.