Job Interview Tips

What to DO and NOT DO at an Interview

You need to fine tune the skills necessary to build a rapport with interviewer quickly. Then you must demonstrate your ability and confidence through innovative communication techniques and be able to focus upon:

• thinking ahead and anticipating the information interviewers require



• using power words and engaging conversation that will place you in charge



• structuring your answers to express information consise and to the point



• how to handle the toughest interview questions confidently, calmly and with polish



• build rapport by using your voice to add impact and interest

You must realize Words are just part of the process. You need to be aware of the unintentional messages you send by your visual presentation, expression, body language, attitude; warmth of manner and level of receptivity during the interview. Another important area to explore is to:

• overcome nerves by looking and feeling confident



• ensure your interview leaves a really positive impression

Yes there's a lot to think about, but as you review and rehearse these interview tips in your mind, they will stay with you and become more and more natural.




Do's

• Arrive 10 minutes early. Being late to an interview is never excusable.



• Clarify questions. Answer the interviewer's questions as specifically as possible. Relate your skills and background to the position requirements throughout the interview.



• Give your qualifications. Focus on accomplishments that are most pertinent to the job.



• Do keep to simple language and be easy to understand. No shortcuts or jargon.



• Do try to make it sound interesting. Let the interviewer enjoy your accomplishments.



• Do credit the interviewer with having read your resume. (Even if they have not)



• Do turn off your mobile phone or put it on a silent vibrate setting before entering the office.



• Anticipate tough questions. Prepare to turn perceived weaknesses into strengths.



• Be specific; cite facts.



• Quantify your results - numerically, if possible.



• Gently dramatize the problem so your results can be important.



• Use I, not we. Claiming an accomplishment ain't bragging if you did it. And it's you they might hire!



• Use concrete examples.



• Tell what you did that is unique. Leave out the methodology unless they ask how you did it



• Do keep your answers relevant to the interviewer's questions.



• Always make a point which favours your cause.



• Help the listener reach the conclusion you desire. Tell him/her what is relevant about your
accomplishment which means that you are the right person for the job.


• Ask questions. An interview should be a mutual exchange of information, not a one-sided conversation.



• Listen. Concentrate not only on the interviewer's words, but also on the tone of voice and body language.



• Once you understand how the interviewer thinks, pattern your answers accordingly and you will be able to
establish a better rapport.


• Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.



• Be professional. Smile, make eye contact and maintain good posture.

• Don't answer vague questions. Ask the interviewer to clarify fuzzy questions.



• Don't interrupt the interviewer. If you don't listen, the interviewer won't either.



• Don't fall into the "I've got a lot to offer" trap. Say exactly what you've got to offer.



• Don't answer your phone during the interview. Doing so is disrespectful and exhibits poor manners. Most damaging of all this behavior sends the message that the call is more important to you than winning the job.



• Don't be overly familiar, even if the interviewer is.



• Don't ramble. Overlong answers may make you sound apologetic or indecisive.



• Don't go into the company's office smelling of cigarette smoke. Most smokers don't realize they give off the smell of smoke. Make sure your clothes and hands are free of this odor.



• Don't lie. Answer questions truthfully.



• Don't express resentment. Avoid derogatory remarks about present or former employers.



• Don't wear heavy perfume or cologne. The interviewer may not share your tastes.



• Don't tell your whole life story - they really want to know what you can do.

Try an approach like the following: "After learning more about your company, the position and responsibilities, I believe that I have the qualities you are looking for. Are there any issues or concerns that would lead you to believe otherwise?"

This is an effective closing question because it opens the door for the hiring manager to be honest with you about his or her feelings. If concerns do exist, you may be able to create an opportunity to overcome them, and have one final chance to dispel the concerns, sell your strengths and end the interview on a positive note.

Make sure your know what happens next in the hiring process, when it's likely to happen and who will be involved in making it happen.
Be Sure you have obtained the interviewer's business card or telephone number and email address. You want to be in a position to send a thank you letter. (You also must be able to follow-up). If you aren't able to get this information from the hiring authority ask the receptionist or front desk person for it.

No matter how you perceive your interview went, make sure you leave the interview location with confidence and poise.