Tips for a job interview
Try to get additional information about the company and the job they offer.
- Read the job offer announcement very carefully, which can tell you something more about the company’s interests.
- The knowledge you obtain about the business of a potential company, the products, its services, its size or some recent news, always pleasantly surprises the interviewer and will give you confidence.
- Review articles about the company in newspapers and magazines.
- Make a list of questions about the company and the job, this way you show your interest and initiative.
- Don’t ask about things like salary during the first interview.
Prepare in advance for the questions that may be asked in the interview
- You can practice your interview answers with other people, but you should not memorize them. It is essential that you act naturally.
- You must be prepared, since you will be the one doing most of the talking.
- Keep in mind that the interviewer will observe if you know how to express yourself well, and how informed you are about the company.
Get and prepare your references
- Try to get references and let them know in advance that you are going to an interview. Tell them about the company and the position you are applying for.
Take the presentation into account
- Sometimes the decision to hire is made in the first few seconds. Try to make a good first impression. Be punctual, check your appearance and try to be pleasant at the reception.
- A smile, a confident and enthusiastic demeanor… all of this can contribute to creating a good first impression of you.
During the interview you must have a good attitude
- Knowing how to listen and being confident are key aspects for a good interview.
- Employers want to see enthusiasm and notice that you are knowledgeable about the company.
Listen very carefully and take notes
- Concrete answers that cover relevant facts are more effective than long answers.
- Make sure you listen to the questions well and that you understand. If you have questions, it’s okay to ask for clarification.
Watch your body language
- Body language can express more about your personality than you think. Avoid all types of nervous movements with your hands or feet.
- Adopt an upright posture. It is bad to walk slouched, as it reflects laziness and lack of professionalism.
- Employers always prefer a happy and enthusiastic candidate than a seemingly hostile or stressed person. But be careful, fake smiles and forced humor are not recommended at all.
Finish the interview well
- Ask some of the questions you prepared previously.
- Thank them, make your interest in working with them clear again, and leave the place.
Finally, keep the following in mind:
- Dress formal.
- Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move, introduce yourself first.
- Greet with a strong handshake, with confidence and professionalism.
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for the position.
- Make eye contact.
- Listen carefully to the interviewer.
- Answer the questions carefully and honestly, taking time to think about the answer if necessary.
- Thank the interviewer for taking the time to interview you.
