Know the job & the
organization: These includes getting to know more about the company and the job and being able to explain how and why you’re the best person to hire.
Answer these questions in your research.
* What does the employer or company do?
* What’s involved in the position you’re applying for?
* What qualifications do you need for the position?
* What skills might the employer be looking for?
* Who are the customers or clients?
* What kind of reputation does the employer have?
You’ll be more comfortable in the interview if you know a
bit about the company and the position you’re applying for.
2. Think Ahead – Pre-Planning is Essential
When you are called, confirm the interview time! Ask if
there will be any test or written assignment you will be asked to do. Find out
how many people will be there.
Plan and rehearse your answers to the questions you expect
to be asked. Memorize the training, skills and experience you have, and be
ready to answer questions on what you did, and how you did it.
3. Choose your clothes a day or two ahead, and make sure
they’re neat and clean.
Be on time. Find out ahead where you’re going and how long
it will take to get there. Drive or travel the route a day or two ahead, at the
same time of day as you will on the day of the interview. Confirm how often the
buses run. Have a back-up plan.
4. What to Wear to an Interview
What you wear can be as important as what you say. Make sure
your clothes are neat, clean, and ironed, if they are meant to be! Don’t turn
up rumpled and untidy. Try to find out how people dress at the place you want
to work, and dress the same or slightly better. Skip the perfume, cologne, or
aftershave. You want to smell clean and nice, but not overpower the
interviewer, or worse, upset someone with allergies.
What to Take to the Interview
Carry a folder or envelope containing:
* A copy of your resume
* Paper and a pen,
* Photocopies of all your credentials
5. You’re On Your Way
You’re at your job interview. Stay relaxed and make a good
impression. Here are some suggestions to help you make sure this step of your
journey gets off on the right foot.
* Greet the interviewer or panel members. Introduce
yourself, and shake hands firmly, without crushing anyone’s fingers. Smile. A
sincere smile will help to put you, and the interviewer, at ease. Stand until
you’re invited to sit down.
* Let the employer or panel members take the lead and set
the tone. Make eye contact, and answer the questions in a firm, clear,
confident voice. Relax and sit naturally, but don’t slouch in your chair or
lean on the interviewer’s desk. Be prepared to tell the interviewer more about
your education, training and skills, work experience, and the personality
traits that make you right for the job.
* It’s okay to ask for more explanation if you don’t
understand a question. In fact, it’s better to ask for clarification if you are
unsure than to answer inappropriately. Keep a positive attitude.
* At some point in the interview, you will be asked if you
have any questions. This is where your research and preparation pays off. Have
a couple of questions prepared that show you are interested and informed about
the company, or ask for more detailed information about the position you’re
applying for.
Quick Tips for the interview
* Be on time. Five or ten minutes early is about right!
* Dress appropriately.
* Don’t chew gum or smoke.
* Be neat, clean and well groomed.
* Never bring a friend to an interview.
* Don’t discuss personal or financial problems.
* After the interview, don’t linger. Smile, shake hands,
thank the interviewer(s) for their time, and make a graceful exit.
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