Five Top Interview Guidelines to Get that Job
How to Show You are the Best Candidate for the Position
Nov 26, 2008
The job interview will obviously make or break your chances at that job. Follow these five top guidelines to ensure you shine as the top candidate for the position.
Be Prepared – Know Yourself
Do your homework on the company that is interviewing you. What does the company do, and how do you think you'd fit in? Knowing yourself means knowing the type of culture at a company that you would fit into, and also knowing what you wouldn't be good in. You may not find out the type of culture until you are at the interview, but knowing yourself will allow you to easily decide if it is a good "fit" between you and the position/company. Does the company expect overtime to be routine? Is there compensation for overtime – in the form of monetary value or time off instead? Which do you prefer – and can you not only survive but thrive in that culture?
What Can You Do for the Company
What benefits can you potentially offer the company? What have you done at another company that would apply to this one – and can you do the same for this company? Think in terms of the company, not in terms of you. What can you offer to the company that another candidate may not? Try to have examples from your work or personal experience.
Appearance Counts
Your physical appearance is important, and not just your clothes. How's your posture? Mom was right - stand up straight and look people in the eyes. Be proud of who you are. Wear appropriate clothes for the interview, and ensure even your shoes are clean and neat. A fashion or marketing job may warrant more outstanding outfits, but generally you'll be find in a suit or slacks/jacket or skirt/jacket. Make sure you are comfortable though! Tight shoes may cause you to wince at the wrong time!
Be Enthusiastic
It's not just your physical appearance, but your attitude that counts as well. Are you enthusiastic listening to questions and answering them? Do you look interested in the proceedings or are you in a panic to leave the room? No one wants to work with a sad-sack, but don't be unnaturally happy either. Find a medium that works for you.
Be Professional
Keep on target at the interview. Don't talk about personal situations or feelings, unless it pertains to the job at hand. Don't put down other jobs/positions/co-workers/bosses. This would only reflect badly on you, not the others. This is a business meeting, so treat it as such. Take your time in answering questions, and ask for clarification if you are not sure what you are being asked.
Bottom Line
By being prepared in what to say; knowing how you fit into a company; and promoting how you can benefit the company, you will help ensure you do get a job offer. Don't forget about your physical and mental appearance. Be confident and enthusiastic! Following the above top guidelines will help ensure you pass the interview with flying colours and get the job offer.
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