Taking the extra precautions needed to make sure that the interview goes right is the primary goal of getting the job. Time is of the essence and arriving early to the interview, whether to fill out a questionnaire or additional paperwork, can be a good sign of responsibility to interviewers.
Doing Interview-Related Homework
Before coming to the interview, always leave some time open before the interview to brush up on the company’s history and background. Learn about the structure of the company, how long they have been in business and some specific aspects of the company that make them different from others. It wouldn't hurt to check up on the credibility of the company to make sure investing time in the company is the right choice.
After doing the necessary research, format questions about the company that the interviewer can explain in further detail, if their website does not provide enough information. This gives the interviewer the chance to elaborate on different aspects of the company, making the decision of investing time in the company much easier for the interviewee to make.
Interview Behavior and Dress
Dress to impress. Make sure the clothes chosen for the interview are more "formal" attire that has been previously chosen before hand. Waiting until the last minute to pick out clothes before an interview can put the arrival time for the interview in jeopardy. Make sure that the clothes chosen are ironed, clean and appropriate for the situation.
Ladies should consider wearing slacks and a shirt with a buttoned up collar. Men should also wear slacks and a shirt with a buttoned up collar, along with a matching tie.
When arriving at the interview, behavior can play a big role. The interviewee should act in a respectful and considerate manner when speaking with the interviewer. Never try to talk over the interviewer and listen to everything that he/she is saying. If the information needs to be repeated, then ask him/her to do so in a polite manner. Don't slouch or move around in the chair; sit up straight and still.
One-on-one Interaction With Interviewer
Asking open-ended questions during the interview is a good way to carry on a conversation that will lead into other aspects about the job or the company. Also ask about the qualifications of the job and what the company might be looking for when choosing an applicant. Creating questions that can be answered with more than just a yes or no is a way to become more comfortable in the interview, and makes conversation easier.
Learning from one's mistakes is the key to making job interviews go smoothly in the future. Prepare by taking detailed notes of one's prior interview behavior, interaction with the interviewer and research about the company.
In order to have a successful interview, the prospective job seeker should prepare in advance by researching the company, plan good questions, dress appropriately, and evaluate performance when the interview is over.
References:
K. Wolfe, J. Carroll and T. Blush. "Tips for a Successful Interview." Fact sheer no. 9.151. Colorado State University. January 2006.
"Interviewing Skills." Office of Career Services.Rollins College.
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