INTERVIEW SKILLS

THE PURPOSE OF THE INTERVIEW

Although you may be the most qualified prospect for the job, you need to prepare for the job interview. Why?  I am glad you asked. Interviewing is a learned skill that gives the employer an opportunity to get to know you by: 

• How you present yourself

• How well you interact with the interviewing panel

• How you describe your work history and education.

An interview is also a time for you to get a feel for the company and its corporate culture. Ideally, the interview should be a tool for both parties to determine — is this career opportunity a good fit?

There are10 interview tips used to guide you in how to respond to interview questions and convince the hiring manager that you are the right candidate for the job.

1. Practice good nonverbal communication - Demonstrate confidence by maintaining good posture, making eye contact and extending a firm handshake.
2. Dress appropriately for the job - Know what to wear to an interview and be well groomed.  Whether you choose to wear a suit or attire that is less formal, be familiar with the company culture and the position you are seeking.  
3. Listen - Be attentive to the information the interviewer is giving you.  Whether it is direct or indirectly, if you are not hearing it, you are missing valuable information.  Having good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you are engaged and hear what is being said. Also observe the interviewer and maintain the same pace. Watch for their nonverbals and facial gestures.
4. Don't talk too much - Avoid telling the interviewer more info than he or she needs to know.  This can be a fatal mistake that can cost you a wonderful opportunity.  Prepare ahead of time by reading through the job description, matching your skills with the position requirements and referencing only that information. This also helps you not to ramble when answering interview questions. 
5. Don't be too familiar - Remember that your interview is a professional meeting.  You should always conduct yourself in a professional manner.  It is important that you show high interest and enthusiasm throughout your interview and ASK questions.
6. Use appropriate language - Avoid using inappropriate slang words, gestures or references to race, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, or politics.  Discussing these topics can be costly to you being considered for a job opportunity.
7. Don't be arrogant - Your attitude plays a key role in your interview success.  Focus on demonstrating professionalism, modesty and confidence. Over confidence can be a turn off for an interviewer.
8. Answer the questions completely - When an interviewer asks for an example of a time when you did something, they are asking behavioral interview questions, which are designed to elicit a sample of your past behavior. If you are unable to relate a specific example to the question, you miss an opportunity to talk about your skills and show how you properly handle challenging situations.
9. Ask questions - Once the question period is done, the interviewer generally ask if you have any questions?  Most candidates respond by saying, "No."  Wrong answer.  A key to knowing how to interview is being prepared to ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the company.  Asking questions also gives you an opportunity to find out if it is the right place for you.
10. Don't appear desperate - No matter how much you see yourself as a part of an organization, refrain from appearing to be desperate and needy for a job.  Instead, reflect the three C's during the interview by remaining cool, calm and confident.

BONUS TIP:

Work on your answers.  Even if you know you are qualified to do the job, make sure the interviewer believes you can too.  A reminder is to prepare well-thought-out answers to questions that will most likely be asked.