The first step towards a successful interview is researching and studying well about the company for which you are being interviewed for. Look out for the products and services that are offered by the company. The standard operating procedures of the company should be read thoroughly to have an idea about how the company’s business works. Researching well about a company before the interview highlights a candidate positively. It reflects the fact that the candidate is dedicated and interested in working for the position he is being interviewed for, thus creating a his image as one of the most suitable candidates in the mind of the interviewers.
The following are some tips that can be helpful in preparing for an interview that goes well:
Practicing for the interview
Practicing for an interview before the interview will help you in not getting nervous and lost for proper words during the real interview. Commonly, the very first question asked by most interviewers is to tell them about yourself. So while practicing, you should jot down a few basic things you want the employer to know first about you. After noting the points, practice explaining them in front of the mirror, so that when they are said in front of the interviewer they do not sound fake or inappropriate. Practicing helps you bring out the points that should be said first to make the employer think that you are best candidate for the job.
Dressing formally to create a good first impression
The candidate should dress in formal professional attire in order to create a good first impression. The attire should be chosen as per the dress style of the company. Not all companies follow a formal dress code, where the dress code is casual slacks, and collared shirts can be used. Women should try to not wear any flashy or excessive jewelry or clothes or a very strong fragrance perfume for an interview. It is okay to be overdressed formally for an interview rather being dressed too casually instead.
Be on time
Another aspect of the interview that should be taken care of is to be on time. Punctuality matters a lot in creating a first impression for the employer. It is always advisable to be at least fifteen to twenty minutes early for an interview.
The right body language
Using the right kind of body language during the interview creates a confident image of the candidate. If shaking hands, the hand grip should be firm. A good posture while sitting should be maintained. It is ok to be a little nervous during an interview but being too nervous would create a wrong image of the candidate, especially if meeting and communicating with people is the requirement of the job. The candidate should try to maintain maximum eye contact with the interviewer, this reflects being confident.
Positivity
It is very important to remember that on being asked about your old boss or workplace, no negative comments should be passed. This reflects negativity, which is not preferred while hiring new employees. All employers wish to hire somebody who is energetic, positive and ready to meet challenges during work. Complaining about tasks assigned in the previous job may assure the employer that the candidate does not encompass the above mentioned qualities.
Ask questions to the employer and end with thank you
A candidate should always prepare some questions to ask the interviewer regarding the position or company at the end of the interview. This shows keen interest to work with the company. The interview should be concluded with a thank you by the candidate by saying he was pleased to have been given a chance.