Not Sure If You Have The Interview Skills To Wow The Employer? Here’s What To Do

Your CV was made to the top pile and you passed the first test?

Congratulations!

It is now time to sell yourself and convince the employer that you are the best candidate. It is important to make a great impression because employers use the first 5 minutes to make their decisions.

An interview may take several forms including in-person, virtually, or over the phone, and the format of meeting impacts how you will prepare for the interview.

Preparing well for the interview, impacts positively on your confidence and helps you answer the questions in a way that demonstrates that you are a cut above the rest.

The adage goes, ‘You only have one chance to make a first impression.” But how can you ensure your first impression wins the employers over?

Here are 7 ways to go about it:

1. Research

Take time to go through the company’s website, know their products, services, and the role you will be interviewing for.

Get to know more about the person who will interview you and their role in the company as this will help you figure out what they are likely to ask during the interview.

2. Dress Professionally.

People usually say that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover but it is important to present yourself smartly as this reflects your attitude towards the job and creates a good impression to the interviewer.

3. Arrive On Time.

Plan to arrive 15 minutes earlier as this will allow you to compose yourself before the interview. If you are not familiar with the place, anticipate getting lost and this means you will need extra time.

In case of unavoidable circumstances, ensure that you inform the contact person about the delay and the time you are likely to arrive.

Turning up late shows you don’t have good time management skills which may ruin your chances.

4. Have Answers To Questions You Know Will Be Asked.

There are must-ask questions which employers tend to ask. Prepare for common questions and practice how to respond to them before the interview.

Practice before the mirror but if you are not confident enough, consult interview coaches to guide you on how to answer interview questions. Consult google also to get an idea of the common questions that are likely to be asked.

If you are asked if you have any questions, ask informed questions about the role as this will show the employer that you have a genuine interest. Don’t fail to ask a question as this shows a lack of interest.

5. Limit Distractions.

Give full attention to the interviewer and limit any distractions that may be encountered during the interview.

Switch off your phone before going to the interview room because distractions may show a lack of professionalism.

6. Pay Attention To Body Language.

For you to make a good impression, pay attention to the message your body language is communicating. An interviewer can learn more about candidates through body language.

Start with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, smile, nod in agreement and stand upright throughout the interview as this shows confidence and your interest in the job.

7. Follow up.

After the interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer. If there are documents you are to share then use this opportunity. After some time, do a follow-up if you didn’t receive feedback after the specified time.

Finally

Preparing for the interview may feel intimidating especially if you are not sure of what the employer expects from you. Taking time to prepare for the common questions, and practicing before the mirror can help you feel more confident and position yourself to make a winning first impression.

Want to ace your next interview and make a lasting impression?

Book this One-on-One Interview Coaching Service Today!