Getting the interview right can mean more than having the best resume in the world. According to Monster, the interviewer is trying to understand who you are and how you would fit the job. When asked about who you are or receiving the common "tell me about yourself" request, the interviewer is looking to see whether you will fit in. Answering with "I'm married," or "I'm originally from Boston," can cost you the job. Knowing how to approach the interview makes all the difference.
Types of Interviewer
According to Monster, there are a few types of interviewers, and understanding their attitude and reactions will go a long way toward landing the job. Try to identify what the interviewer is asking and his focus, and answer accordingly. For example, if you get an absentee interviewer, who seems mentally detached, chances are he's distracted and not really willing to concentrate his attention on you. If that's the case, keep your answers short and simple. You might also get the inquisitor, who asks tough questions in hopes of breaking you down under stress. In those cases, take a deep breath and try to stay calm. Don't go into long-winded speeches just to break the uncomfortable silence. Try to capture your interviewer's mood and then answer questions accordingly.
Resume
Even if you already sent your resume in advance, you might be asked to show it again. Your interviewer might even base the discussion on questions he formulates looking at your resume. Before you even go into the interview, update your resume to reflect more specific details and be ready to provide more depth at the interview. Avoid meaningless statements like "I'm organized," or "I'm a team player." Instead, Monster advises saying things like, "I can get chaotic situations under control," or "I know how to work with others to bring a project to success."
Questions to Ask
According to Virginia Tech's Smith Career Center, you should go into an interview prepared to ask questions. Stick to a reasonable number of questions rather than asking the 20 or so you might have in mind. Three to five questions is an effective number as a general rule. Virginia Tech recommends sticking to questions that are open-ended and cannot be answered with a yes or no. For example, avoid "Do you have a reward system for your employees?" and instead ask "How does your company reward successful employees?" Make sure you don't ask questions that are clearly answered on the company's website. That would show your lack of research and can make you come across as disinterested.
Body Language
More than anything, focus on the talk. Anything that distracts the interviewer from your words can work against you. Career Builder recommends watching your movements. Don't rock in your chair, drum your fingers on the table or play with your hair. Avoid slouching on the chair or relaxing against the back. Instead, sit straight and with your shoulders back. This shows interest and confidence. Don't stare blankly into space or into the interviewer's eyes. Maintain eye contact but also gesture, nod and make movements that indicate interest.
Common Questions
No matter what job you're interviewing for, chances are you'll run into a series of common questions. According to AC People, being ready to answer them can make or break an interview. It's common for an interviewer to ask what makes you well-suited for the job. AC People recommends giving specifics, especially if you don't have the level of experience that others might bring to the job. Explain what your strengths are, how your past experience can benefit the company and how passionate you are about your career choice. If asked about past jobs, don't badmouth former employers.
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