A brand new year means making the most of the opportunities that will come your way. For some people, that can mean starting out their professional lives or switching careers to try new challenges. If you happen to find yourself on either side, that means making certain you stand out in your next job interview.
The Job Interview Checklist
Having a well written and properly referenced CV is just the tip of the interview iceberg. First impressions, body language and genuine interest in the position all should be considered. Here are some tips that may help in acing that next job interview.
First Impressions Matter
It’s a cliché statement you’ll hear a lot but that also makes people overlook it in their job interviews. You can lay the foundation for a good first impression with simple actions during the interview. A warm greeting, a firm handshake and direct eye contact can help ensure a successful job interview.
Be Prepared
It’s often said that a great interview tip to remember is to have multiple copies of your CV with you. Preparation, however, should also mean having other important documents with you like copies of the job description and company background if you get access to it. You may not need these during the job interview but it never hurts to go the extra mile for preparation!
Know What You Are Applying For
Fully grasping the job description will help you understand what particular companies are looking for. You not only get an idea of how to answer particular questions accordingly, you can also discuss bring up moments in your professional career that relate to it.
Keep Things Simple
When discussing these points however, some people tend to use long or complex terms. The use of jargon may make people sound smart, but it can also remove authenticity when you speak about yourself. Expressing yourself simpler and conversing in a normal, relatable manner leaves a much stronger impression.
Manage Your Time Wisely
In the Philippines, you’ll occasionally hear the joke that Filipinos are never late but rather follow “Philippine time.” While humorous in its own right, it is also a frustrating concept that burdens both the applicant and interviewer.
Before leaving for the job interview, check commute routes and what traffic will be like to plan your departure time. Research if there is ample parking space for your car within the vicinity. As stated earlier, you are trying to create a good first impression on your potential employer. Showing up before your scheduled interview will certainly be seen as a positive. It also gives you time to freshen up, prepare mentally and acclimate to your new surroundings.
Sell Your Strengths
Think of the skills you excel at and what you believe you can deliver. Ask yourself what you can contribute to the position you are applying for and if possible, you can give examples that show your handiwork.
Having confidence in your abilities will show the interviewer what you can bring to the company.
You can also do the same for the weaknesses you believe to have. Remember that no one is perfect as people are always looking for ways to improve and develop. Your negatives can be spun into positives such as by showing your eagerness to learn, adapt and grow to new surroundings.
You Can Ask Questions Too
On the subject of eagerness, have a few questions for the interviewer that will help you understand what you are applying for more. Questions like work hours and salary should be avoided unless asked of you. However, questions centered on career development and company vision should help establish further rapport. If you really are keen to join the company you are applying for, show it as best as you can in your actions!
Of course, not all these tips may apply to you and there might be some that you feel more comfortable doing than others. What’s important however is you are well-prepared for any job interview that you will walk into. The path you will take professionally is a significant turning point and if you are passionate and driven to land that job you always wanted, it is certainly something that is worth making the extra effort for.
