7 Interview Tips For The Post Holiday Season

So, how did you spend your holiday season?

‘I spent my holiday eating my favorite meals, I attended all the celebrations in the neighborhood and I slept the rest of the days.’

‘I spent my holiday learning how to prepare for a virtual interview, I updated my CV, I enrolled for webinar class to understand more about WordPress and I learned about digital marketing skills.’

The second candidate is likely to win because he demonstrates that despite enjoying downtime with fun activities, he developed skills that will help him add value to the organization.

This will leave a positive impression on the employer compared to the first candidate.

The festive season for many people is a time to have fun, meet with friends, attend various parties, and taste various types of food and some may forget about the coming year.

As 2022 approaches, most job seekers will attend interviews without expecting to be asked the questions they are not used to hence you should prepare yourself well for the interview.

Unexpected questions asked during the interview should be treated as seriously as any other questions. This is because the way you respond demonstrates your personality traits and the employer may make a decision based on your response.

So how will you handle the interview after the holiday season?

Here are 7 tips:

1. Score A Success In The First 5 Minutes.

Studies show that employers make up their minds in the first five minutes and the rest of the time to confirm their decisions. Start with positive comments about the company, come with energy, and show your enthusiasm about the job.

2. Get On The Same Side As The Interviewer.

Interviewers perceive job interviews as adversarial. It is your opportunity to transform the “tug of war” into a relationship that will put both of you on the same page. Appreciate the interviewer for considering you for the opportunity.

3. Know Why You’re On The “Nice” List

Understand your strengths and research to understand the positive traits that you will bring to the table. Demonstrate to the employer that you are the best fit and solve the employer’s problem. Employers consider someone who can help the company grow and overcome the challenges that are standing in their way to success.

4. Clarify Your “Selling Points”

Prepare to go to an interview with 3-5 key selling points in mind. Have an example of each selling point prepared and show what interests you about the job.

5. Anticipate The Interviewer’s Concerns And Reservations.

In a competitive job market, many candidates apply for few opportunities available. Employers screen candidates who may not possess some skills. Ask yourself what may prevent you from being considered then prepare for defense.

6. Be Ready To Handle Inappropriate Questions.

Apart from preparing for common questions, the employer may pose questions that include age, marital status, or religion and you should know how to answer because an interview is an opportunity for the employer to know more about you.

7. Think Positive and Close On a Positive Note

Don’t dwell on negative experiences during an interview. If asked what you liked least about the previous job, don’t answer it directly but twist it in a way that despite disliking it, you still had something positive in it. For example, although I found my supervisor more commanding, I liked the way he made employees work hard and accomplish the tasks given.

Finally,

During the interview, ensure that you showcase the skills that make you a perfect fit for the position. Ensure that you create the first impression and explain why you are the best match for the position. Respond to the questions that demonstrate your personality trait and enhance your prospective employer’s opinion of you.

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