7 Tips for a Job Interview

chillibreeze writer — Mariam Noronha

All job aspirants are generally very concerned about making an impression at the all important “interview”. An interview is a meeting between the prospective employer (the interviewer) and employee (the employee). It involves a dialogue between these two parties. An interviewee often faces an interview panel consisting of two or more representatives of the prospective employer. Small things can make or break an interviewee’s chance of selection at this meeting. Attention to detail helps the interviewee to nail the job he or she is aspiring for.

Here are a few tips that help to create the right impression at an interview:

1. DRESS RIGHT

The principle is to dress simple, never informal. One should avoid both over-dressing or under- dressing. Gentlemen should wear light coloured shirts and trousers with a neck tie. If uncomfortable with a neck tie it should be avoided. Comfort and elegance is the key. A coat or formal suit is not necessary. Never match red and green or blue and pink, the interview is the wrong time to parade in your favorite contrasting color combinations. Women should wear saris or salwar kameez and minimum jewellery. Proper footwear is important for both men and women. Men should wear formal shoes and proper socks. Women can wear heels if they are comfortable in them. More importantly, one should walk on one’s toes and not stomp or click heels.

2. PREPARING YOUR FILE

Testimonials and certificates should be arranged in a display folder/book with the most recent qualification on top. The idea behind using a display book instead of the conventional file is to facilitate the interviewer’s search for any specific document at a glance instead of flipping through a file. Modern stationary products are a combination of convenience and style so use them well.

3. RELAX

It’s important to remain calm and unflustered on the day of the interview. This not really a time to remember one’s failures. Concentrate on your successes in the past no matter how minor they seem. Take a few deep breaths and tell yourself you are good no matter what happens.

4. TRAVELLING TO THE INTERVIEW

One may wonder how this is important. The fact of the matter is it is important. If the venue of the interview is in your city give yourself adequate time considering the traffic situation in the city. Leave early so that you arrive in time. If you are using public transportion to reach the interviewers, avoid peak hours. Travel carefully because it’s a small world and you never know the person who sat next to you on the bus ride to the interview may be on the interview panel! If the interview is in another city, plan your travel so as to arrive in the city at least a day before. Seek proper directions to the venue, it will save precious time.

5. BODY LANGUAGE, FACIAL EXPRESSIONS & GESTURES

Although we all don’t realize this our body language, facial expressions and gestures let people know what we are thinking without our even saying it. So walk confidently, keep your head and shoulders straight. When seated sit comfortably, don’t slouch or sit on the edge of the chair or sofa, it will seem like you’re nervous. Do not fidget. Keep a pleasant expression on your face, smile but don’t over do it. Avoid touching your hair or face constantly. If required to wait for a long time before being called in, be calm and do not give in to irritation.

6. FACING THE PANEL

Knock lightly and wait to be asked before entering. Greet the panel and sit down only after being asked to. Answer questions honestly and admit if you don’t know the answer to a question. Don’t be tempted to bluff - it will only be to your detriment as you will come across as dishonest. Make eye contact with the entire panel. Do not refuse tea or refreshments offered by the panel.

7. FIELDING QUESTIONS

At all times speak clearly and audibly. Your responses should be honest and sincere. Give a brief introduction of yourself. If asked about your hobbies talk about something you have knowledge of. Even if you have to express a negative idea do it with tact and diplomacy. Do not be vague particularly if asked about your salary expectations.

These seven tips are really a practical approach to facing an interview. So follow them and you could land yourself that plum job you always wanted.

Chillibreeze's disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views of Chillibreeze as a company. Chillibreeze has a strict anti-plagiarism policy. Please contact us to report any copyright issues related to this article.

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Mariam says, "I am grateful to be a teacher & touch so many lives. I love to read and am particularly interested in communication."

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