An interview can be daunting sometimes, especially if it is for a job that you have always dreamed of. There is no right or wrong way to prepare for an interview, however there is a convenient way to do so.
The style of conducting the interview varies from candidate to another due to multiple factors. Think for example about the IT sector versus the film and cinema. Each industry has its tone and style however, some traits are transferable across all of them. Hence, here are the 5 tips to follow as a rule of thumb regardless the job type in question.
5. Remember to Breathe...
As simple as this may sound, while preparing for an interview whether alone or with a coach, remember to breath properly throughout the interview.
Other than the fact that breathing is essential to our survival, its pace increases significantly when we are in “fight or flight mode”. The latter is a state experienced by many interviewees as it is a natural mechanism sensed by all species when feeling threatened. Even though an interview does not pose a danger for our biological life per se, however it exerts a lot of tension on our bodies. Hence, the best natural defense mechanism is breathing deeply and slowly at specific intervals to release the stress and provides the essential oxygen.
4. Smile Regularly throughout the Interview
A smile never fails in any situation. Of course, looking serious is needed in many scenarios in life and especially in an interview, but also regularly smiling goes a long way in any conversation.
Hence, while you prepare for your interview, remember to smile. You can start practicing it now if you are a serious person by nature. Smiling shows that you are not tensed and gives you a boost of confidence which we will discuss next, but for now just smile…
3. Look Confident and Dress Properly
It might seem like a simple task, but dressing properly for an interview is rather complex. You need to look elegant but at the same time not so overdressed. Also, the element of comfort needs to be factored in. So, choose clothes that you normally would wear for a special event but without excessive accessories.
2. Take a Notebook and Pen to Your Interview
You might not be that kind of person who is obsessed with writing. However, there is no need to write every single information, just the headlines of what is being said. Most interviewers appreciate interviewees who grab a pen and write some notes. It shows how serious you are about the vacancy.
1. Ask Questions, Get Clarifications and Feedback
Towards the end of the interview or when shifting to another interviewer if it happens that multiple people are conducting the session, you may ask for clarifications if need be. Moreover, when the meeting is over, if you remember something later, it is a good idea to send an email and get some clarification especially if you have already written some notes down.
On the other hand, if a couple of weeks have passed and the employer did not send any communication, you can email or call to get a feedback.
