How to Conquer a Job Interview

How to Conquer a Job Interview
By Perry Hua

Preparing for a Job Interview

It is natural to feel nervous before a job interview but you can take steps to minimize anxiety. You've probably researched the company a little or learned about the procedures involved already but you might need a bit more than that though.

Learn about what value the company provides and gather thoughts on why this value is sought after by people. Brainstorm situations that might occur, whether questions being asked or how you will present yourself. If you are going into sales, prepare some pitches that show your knowledge about sales. Pay attention to details and show you have a true interest in the company. Go over what you are going to say through your head.

What else might you need to know? Keep reading to find out.

Before the Job Interview

Who isn't nervous during a job interview? I'm sure almost everyone is, unless they are perfect. It's okay to have some self doubts though as long as it doesn't interfere with the interview. You will need to practice confidence though which is what a potential employer wants to see. Here's how:

Make eye contact. Be a lion.
Present yourself well. Shake hands, greet your interviewer in a positive manner, and converse.
The more you have gone through the process, the more confident you'll be. Practice what you're going to say with family or friends first.
Sell what you have to offer. Know your strengths.
You know you're qualified. If you weren't you wouldn't have gotten the job interview. So stand tall and barge through!

During the Interview

Honesty is key. You don't want to lie in order to make yourself seem a better candidate, but know the difference between highlighting positive things in stories and lying. Remember, companies can conduct reference checks so don't say anything that can't be verified.

Don't lie about educational degrees that you don't have, positions that you can possibly take (if you're a salesperson don't say you can fill in the role of manager), or projects you've "undertaken".

Tell the truth but put yourself in the best light. Tell the part you play in projects and share the success of your efforts. Show that you're a team player as well, companies don't like lone wolfs.

Try to avoid your weaknesses, if you have any. Or switch them around to say why they can benefit your work.

After the Interview

Now that you've reached the end, you might feel better about your chances. If your interviewer asks if you have any questions for them, assert your power. Don't ask questions like "How did I do?" or "Are you going to hire me?" It's not going to work. But there are questions you can ask to get information about your performance and to determine if the company is a right fit for you.

Ask what the next steps are and the timeline for them. Depending on how this is answered, you may be able to figure out their reaction to you. But don't think this is a guarantee. It will give you a hint about your performance though. If they seem genuinely interested they will show it. They might explain what they have to check or how many interviews are left, but that they have to go through the process. If they tell you that you will hear from them within a certain period of time, it isn't as promising.

You can also ask your own questions to interview the company. Show how valuable you are by asking them how are they a good fit for you? If you researched about the company already ask some questions from your list. Show that you prepared well as this will impress your employers. Ask about company direction or expansion, or what benefits they provide, such as vacations or medical plans. Show an interest in
the business and take notes; it will make you look better.

Thank your interviewer as well, not only after the process but later during the day or week. Avoid calling, your interviewer is far too busy or might not want to answer a call so send something simple like a thank you email. Don't expect a reply however because you probably won't get one and do not follow up as you will become an annoyance. Don't do anything extravagant or cutesy as well, you don't want to seem desperate.

You could also send a short and professional thank you note if you don't think they'll check on your email. Make it simple by thanking the interviewer for taking the time to sit down with you and how much you enjoyed speaking with them and learning about the company. Although thanking them is not necessary, it can add a helpful touch to a strong interview.

***Is your job making you happy? ***

***Learn what creates job satisfaction so you can be happy doing what you do.***

***Perry Hua is an aspiring writer in the field of personal development and is passionate about helping others improve themselves. Read more from Perry Hua at http://www.ithuit.com ***

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