In my career, I've "worn many hats," as some might like to say. One of the most valuable experiences I've had in my work is interviewing potential employees. My colleague and I often conducted these interviews together, and after the candidate would leave, we would walk back to our office to discuss the interview. We had interviews that were a breath of fresh air, a sigh of relief, and great people to talk to. We also had interviews that prompted quite a bit of eye-rolling from both of us once we got back to our office. When you're in a job interview, you have a pretty short amount of time to make a good impression. Here're 10 helpful hints:
1. Be confident!
Smile, greet your interviewer when they greet you, a nice handshake doesn't hurt either.
2. Your interview starts before your interview actually starts
...If that makes any sense. If you are waiting in a lobby or another room for your interviewer to come get you, make sure your interactions with anyone else you come across during that time are pleasant. This doesn't mean you have to go out of your way to engage in conversation or anything, but respond politely if someone engages you. They likely will tell your interviewer later how that went.
3. Be prepared!
Come with two or three questions about the position or the place you're applying to. Having a pen and paper, as well as an extra copy of your resume, is also beneficial.
4. Talk for a reasonable amount of time when answering a question.
It should not take you more than a minute to answer an interview question, unless perhaps you're asking for clarification on the question. If you ramble for 5 minutes, chances are the employer has tuned out after 1 and is just sitting there waiting for you to finish.
5. Try to use professional examples (examples from previous work experience) when answering your interview questions.
Talking about your roommate conflicts, your elementary school friendships or your pets are great conversation topics, but not necessarily great topics for interview answers (unless maybe you're applying at an elementary school or pet store?).
6. Try to speak positively.
If for example, you are discussing a conflict at a previous workplace, instead of saying "The manager didn't like me and we didn't get along," say something more like "My manager and I had our differences, but we still worked together to get the job done."
7. It is ok to smile or even chuckle a little bit!
Don't feel like you have to be a robot. You're humans having a conversation with one another, let it be as natural as possible.
8. BE ON TIME.
Getting there 15 minutes early is on time. Getting there on time is close to late. Getting there late is just really, really late, and at this point it's probably a waste of time. If you know you're going to be late even by a minute, call the employer to let them know, and it is possible (not probable) that will save you.
9. Seriously, just be yourself.
The best results are going to come from you just going in there and being you. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses, your availability, why you want the job, etc. Let your passion shine through!
10. Also seriously.....for the love of God, don't wear jeans.
No matter what the interview is for. Make an effort!
Good luck!
