Getting a job can be hard enough without the added stress of the initial job interview. With preparation and confidence, an interview can be a great experience that allows you the opportunity to stress your strengths and minimize your weaknesses, painting a better picture of you than your resume alone.
Preparation
One of the first things you need to do to prepare for a positive interview experience is to research, according to Employment Guide. Visit the location if possible, search the website, talk to people who know about the business and find out what products or clients the company deals with. Be prepared to ask the employer questions about the information you discover. This is your chance to find out how you would fit in with the company.
Practice
Employment Guide also states it is important to practice before the interview. Practice the interview out loud and in front of a mirror, answering questions that might come up or have a friend or relative act as the employer. Come up with answers to questions that might be tricky and find the best examples from your past that showcase your ability to work for the company. Practice makes perfect, and doing this will help you polish your answers and build your confidence.
Appearance
The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that appearance is one of the most important factors in preparing for an interview. Do not go into an interview chewing gum or having just smoked a cigarette or pipe. Also, make you're entering the interview with good personal hygiene and are well groomed. Employment Guide says dressing appropriately means a dark-colored, conservative suit or nice slacks and a button-down shirt with tie or blouse and slacks or a skirt. Do not wear too much perfume, jewelry or anything that is loud or unusual. The more conservative you dress, the better.
What to Bring
Be ready to hand over a Social Security card, driver's license or other identification, resume, information about previous work experience, references that are not relatives and school transcripts, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You should feel more prepared if you have as much information on hand as possible and will look prepared to your prospective employer if you can provide anything asked of you on the spot.
Etiquette
Always be early to your interview and greet your prospective employer by name and with a firm handshake, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says. Be courteous to everyone you see and use proper English. Ask questions about the company but avoid anything related to salary or benefits until you have been offered the job. Answer all questions honestly and concisely while maintaining eye contact. Thank the interviewer when you leave and send a thank-you note shortly after the interview has ended.
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