While the interview process itself won’t be the same from company to company and job title to job title, there are aspects and trends that are similar. There is a lot you can and should do to prepare for an interview. Read on!
Arrival
Arrive at the interview building location a half-hour before the interview and go inside the company’s lobby fifteen minutes before your appointment. Remember that an interview begins the moment you arrive in the reception area. Get settled and be cordial with the receptionist. Front office personnel are often coached to form opinions about you. Their “report” may be part of your interview evaluation.
The Interview: Non – Verbal
Being aware of your body language is very important. Use it effectively, beginning at introductions. Offer a firm handshake, eye contact and smile. These small behaviours indicate, “I’m confident; I’m excited to be here.” Do your best to avoid obvious signs of nervousness like tapping a pen, drumming your fingers, shaking your foot or shuffling papers. When talking, use gestures to convey your passion and excitement. Change the tone of your voice, volume and inflection to avoid being monotonous. Also, watch the interviewer’s body language for cues and if necessary, change your approach. Ask a question. Draw the interviewer back into the interview.
Appearance
The way you dress and groom yourself are the first things an interviewer sees. You’ve heard it before and it bears repeating: you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression. Be professional in your dress and if you aren’t certain about the corporate dress code and culture, err on the side of conservatism. Ensure clothes are clean and pressed; wear shoes that are polished; avoid jewellery that may be distracting; and be conscious that others may have cologne/perfume allergies (less is better; none is best).
Your Cell Phone
TURN IT OFF. Your phone should not buzz, beep or ring during the interview period (including while you wait to be seen). Do not text while you are waiting for or during the interview.