Following the proper steps for a job interview can make the difference between a long search and a successful one that will land you the job you want. You should know what to do during a job interview. Even in tough economic times it is possible to get a job as a student if you keep tips in mind.
What to Do Before Interview
As a student, knowing what to expect and what to do ahead of time is essential for a job interview as it will make the process go smoothly. It always pays to be prepared. Remember that interviewers ask a lot of questions and be ready to provide specific examples. Rather than saying that you are an honest person or an effective communicator, give an example showing how it is true. Quintcareers.com says that you should also be prepared to answer questions that you do not really want to answer in trouble areas, such as a low GPA, lack of related experience or other weaknesses. In situations like this, try to state what you learned from your mistakes and how they made you into a better person.
Know what employers are looking for in employees, including hands-on experience, communication skills, leadership, solid academics. Also, the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests having a specific job in mind and learning about the organization ahead of time. This includes knowing the services, products, goals and competitors.
Besides being prepared for answering questions that the interviewer will have for you, you should prepare questions for him, as it will show that you actually put time into thinking about the interview. These questions should be written down and placed in a folder along with a pen for taking additional notes. Make sure that the voice mail on your phone is professional because an unprofessional voice mail might cause an employer to change their mind about hiring you. Preparing extra copies of your resume, cover letter, transcript and references for the interviewer is not a bad idea either.
What to Do During Interview
As a student, knowing what to expect and what to do during a job interview is vital because this is when the interviewer will see and hear you and it is your chance to make an impression. Remember that your interview really starts before the actual interview because the interviewer might have other people observe you. Your appearance is very important; in fact, statistics show that 55 percent of the impact you make on people when you first meet them is based on the way you dress, act and walk through the door, according to the Sarina Russo Group website. This includes arriving early, being well groomed, smiling, being friendly to everyone you come across, dressing professionally and firmly shaking the hand of the interviewer while looking them directly in the eyes. Sit up straight, lean forward slightly and nod when it is appropriate, as stated by the Russo Group. Use proper English without slang and be cooperative and enthusiastic. Also, do not chew gum or smoke and do not leave your cell phone on.
You should sell yourself in the interview but without being arrogant. Confidence is key. Tell the interviewer why she should hire you in terms of your talents, experience and skills rather than just giving a biography of your life. Before you leave, get the business card of whoever interviewed you, shake their hand and thank them for their time.
What to Do After Interview
It is always good to reflect on how you did after an interview so you can make improvements on any future interviews. As stated by Job Interview Questions website, it is advisable to send a thank-you letter that is no more than one page long to whomever interviewed you within 24 hours of the interview. A hand-written note is the best option because it is more personal and shows that you put extra effort into it. An email or typed letter is not the best option, but if you have no time for a handwritten letter, it is better than sending nothing. You should complete any followup instructions the interviewer gave you and contact him if you have not heard from them by the time that they said they would get back to you.
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