You have made it through the first stages of hiring. Now, you are facing one of the most stressful and anxiety-producing parts of the process: The Job Interview!
You will undoubtedly feel some nerves but utilizing these tips to keep your cool will leave a great first impression and increase your chances of landing the job you want.
Do Your Homework
While interviews are stressful and you are bound to feel some nerves, it is just as important a step for you as it is for the company with which you are interviewing. Extensively researching the company gives you the opportunity to get a feel for whether or not it will be a good fit for you. Use your research to prepare some company-specific questions prior to your interview. By doing so, not only will you show you are prepared but you will also give the impression that you have a genuine interest in the company.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Review your resume. Keep your accomplishments fresh in your mind. Pump yourself up on the way to the interview. Practice introducing yourself, your elevator pitch, and your answers to common behavioural interview questions.
Spend time practicing in front of the mirror to ensure your body language is calm, cool, and collected. Take the time to perfect your handshake with a friend or family member. The more you practice, the better prepared you will feel which will help keep your anxiety under control.
Always Dress Professionally
Dress in professional business attire and make sure you’re well-groomed. Even if you are interviewing with a company known for having a casual environment, make it a point to look polished and professional for your interview.
Be Confident
Remember you are making a first impression, so it is imperative to present yourself with confidence. Be mindful of your body language as it says just as much about you as your words and accomplishments do. Make sure you make eye contact, have a confident handshake, demonstrate good posture, avoid fidgeting, and keep your answers and movements slow and steady.
Be Yourself
While the interviewers are determining if you are a good fit for their company, you should also take the time to assess whether the company is a good fit for you. Sometimes it is not, and that is okay. If you are not authentic, you could end up with a job in which you are miserable. Therefore, it is imperative that you are true to yourself to ensure the position is the perfect fit.
Following these tips allows your accomplishments and the value you will bring to the company to shine, and you will make a great first impression.
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