Interview Tips And Tricks

Unlike most activities, job interviews(www.careertunity.com) do not get better with experience. Every job interview is unique and therefore adequate preparation for them is an essential component. The average interview can be broken down into three phases: Pre-Interview, The Interview and Post-Interview.

At the pre-interview stage, preparation and research is key.

Research
The company of choice needs to be thoroughly researched. Recruiters(www.careertunity.com) often express surprise at the number of candidates that appear at interviews without any knowledge of the company they are applying to. Background research on both the company as well as the industry will be of great assistance. Interviewers are easily impressed by candidates who are familiar with the news and happenings of the industry in question. In case of time constraints, one needs to know at least the basic company profile of the organization, news about the company as well as the job profile being applied for.
Having researched the company, turn the attention to yourself. Map out your skills, weaknesses, qualities and strengths. If you are sure of your traits, they can be played up or played down as required.


Prepare
Practicing answers for typical interview questions may lead to answers sounding rehearsed. A candidate needs to think fast and adapt their answers as necessary. While preparing a basic framework of answers to the expected questions is advisable, rehearsing answers is not. Prepare examples you can use to back up your answers.

Most candidates fumble when it comes to posing a question to the interviewer. Prepare your questions for the interviewer, so that you can ask them with confidence.


The Interview
Every interview is a nerve wracking experience, but try to stay as calm as possible as this will help you to stay focused. Arrive at the chosen interview location well before scheduled time. Be sure to carry with you extra copies of your CV in a clear folder, along with a pen. Familiarizing oneself with the environment will help to understand the organization better. Late appearances at interviews are frowned upon as it speaks of a disorganized individual with poor time management skills.

Though many may beg to differ, first impressions are extremely important. Ones attire must be professional and in keeping with the cultural norms of the region the company is located in. When in doubt, go for the more conservative option, black, grey or blue pin-stripe suits are universally accepted as formal business attire for both men and women.

A firm handshake conveys confidence and professional enthusiasm. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Non verbal cues are as important as appearances and therefore, must be controlled. Watch out for the How To Series on Effective Interview Body Language at www.careertunity.com. Coming Shortly!

Pay attention to the interviewer(s) and allow them to complete the question before answering them. This will also give you time to form your answers. Do not rush through the interview; instead, set yourself at the interviewers pace.

Stay focused on the questions and ensure that answers are kept brief and concise. Long drawn out answers communicate an unsteady knowledge base and a lack of clarity of mind.

When discussing previous work experience, support your achievements with accurate and verifiable facts and figures. Do not at any point criticize former places of employment or employers, as this communicates disloyalty.

Be honest about your experience. If you have no experience, then stress your quick learning and adaptability skills.

Everyone makes mistakes. Should you stumble at a question, apologize and try to bring the conversation back on track. Dont shy away from clarifying a vague or unclear question.

It is important to appear enthusiastic and positive. Be courteous and polite.

A sinkhole in most interview sessions is the question of salary. Remember not to bring up the topic too early into the interview. Research on the company will provide you with knowledge of an approximate salary range; in addition you should also research on the internet for an approximate salary range for your career level.


Post-Interview
Companies reciprocate interest in candidates who are interested in them, so follow up is important. Poor follow ups often lead to the loss of many a potential job. A follow up note or a thank you note is becoming increasingly popular with interviewers. These notes are to be kept professionally brief and courteous. They are not to be used to harass employers into giving you the job, but to serve as a subtle reminder of what an impressive candidate you were.

After every interview, review the questions asked, and work on the problem areas that may have risen during the interview. Work on how you could have answered the questions better. This preparation will assist you in your next interview.