Have you ever encountered a situation when after an interview you felt that the job was yours but received a rejection letter a few days later?
Interviews like any other personal interaction are subjective. Personal choices are different about everything and this applies to people as well. It is this subjective nature of interviews that makes them difficult to crack. However, some simple tips can assist you in creating the right impression more often than not.
So here are 8 simple and essential tips for cracking the interview code:
- Being punctual is not just a virtue, it is an expectation. Arrive a few minutes early to accommodate for any last minute changes or documentation. It helps in calming your nerves since you get time to take a breath, have a glass of water and freshen up if required.
- Be courteous. Following simple etiquette like waiting to be offered a chair before you sit will create the right impression. With changing times interview are sometimes held over meals so knowing your dining etiquette will help.
- Smile. A pleasant smile goes a long way in creating a positive impression. A smile is also a good way to hide your jitters. It also helps in building rapport with the interviewers. An interview is a high pressure situation and smiling can help diffuse the tension. But it is also difficult and requires some practice.
- Dress for the interview. In all the preparation for the interview people neglect what they wear. This is a critical error, since how you look is what creates the first impression. Be comfortable and confident in what you wear. Going with traditional blacks and blues is a safe way to go if you are unsure of the colors what colors to wear.
- Be a good listener. An interview is not only about expressing your views and but also listening to the interviewer to gain important insights. An interview is not only a ground to judge the candidate but also a place for the candidate to analyze the organization, and in order to do that the candidate must be a good listener.
- Mind your body language. Having a positive body language adds to your personality and creates the right impression. Maintain a smart posture and eye contact at all times. Body language can indicate your level of stress and interest in a situation.
- Be confident. No one is expected to have all the answers, but accepting that with humility and confidence will set you apart.
For interview skills and more on business communication lookup BizComm by Strengthscape.