How to Make a Powerful Impression in Interviews
Tips to make a Strong, Lasting, Postive impression at an Interview
Feb 3, 2009
Interviews are challenging experiences, even for confident interviewees. With some preparation and research, you can address many of your worries prior to the actual meeting. And with some attention to detail you can ensure that you make a strong, lasting, positive impression.
Prior to Your Interview
Check your interview details: Arrive with ample time to spare for your interview (even if you have to wait outside in the carpark for a moment). If you’re late, it not only makes a poor impression, but you’ll be stressed before the interview even begins.
Do your research: Find out as much as you can about the organization that you have an interview with. With this knowledge you can better understand the culture of the company and decide if it’s where you’d really like to work. Come up with a list of relevant questions that you can ask during the interview. This shows that you have an interest in the company and are pro-active in your approach.
Appearance: Find out what is appropriate dress code at the organization and dress accordingly. If you are applying via an employment agency, the agency should be able to advise you. If you cannot find out, err on the side of professional appearance: suit or smart business attire. Pay attention to the finer details of your appearance; scuffed shoes or dirty nails can give a poor impression.
Check your CV: Have a copy of the CV that you applied for the job with, and make sure you’re familiar with the content. It’s possible that you will be asked questions based on the content, such as any career breaks or more details on particular roles. Think about possible questions and answers prior and you’ll feel more confident during the interview that you'll be able to handle most of their questions.
Be prepared: If you’re giving a presentation double check that everything is working fine prior to the interview and back a back-up plan if you’re relying on technology. You may want to take a paper copy of your slides just in case.
At Your Job Interview
Body language: Body language says a lot about state of mind. At the interview remember to stand straight and hold your head up high. Give a firm handshake, smile and make eye contact when you are speaking.
Confidence: You may not feel confident but it’s important that at your interview that you appear so. The key to building confidence is preparation. Obtain a detailed job description for the job you are applying for before the interview and study it well. This will also help you anticipate some of the questions that they may ask you. If it lists skills do a quick check that you have what is required and determine your skill levels.
Be positive: Try to put a positive spin on your answers. For example, rather than focusing on why you left your last position you could emphasis the benefits such a move had for you (such as opening up new opportunities).
Avoid negatives: Try to avoid mentioning any negative experiences, such as saying you left because you didn’t get along with your last manager. While this might have been very valid, your new employer may suspect that you’re difficult to work with.
Show an interest: In the company, in the people, and in the role. Show an eagerness to learn and progress in the industry. While it’s important to be confident in your skills try not to come across as arrogant; it’s great that you have good knowledge but an employer wants to see that you’re also open to learning more.
Making a powerful impression at an interview is all about being prepared. Some work beforehand in anticipating possible questions can help you feel confident and ready for almost anything they can throw at you. Do your research and find out as much as possible about the company before you go. This helps, not only show that you have an interest in the company, but that you take the effort to prepare some relevant questions. And after you’ve done all your hard work, hold your head high, maintain good eye contact and smile! Being positive really does leave a great lasting impression.
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