You've finally done it: you've submitted a job application, and by some miracle, you've been called back for an interview!
First of all, allow me to congratulate you on this accomplishment. Getting called back for an interview is just the first step to following a pathway of reward. Now comes the first hurdle: the interview itself.
If you've never interviewed for a job before, the first thing to know is that you shouldn't be scared. In fact, if you're reading this, that means you've taken the initiative to begin the process of having a successful interview! As a girl who has just left her first year-long job, (I'm moving to go to school) I can personally assure you that the interview itself is surprisingly easy to manage. Here are a few tips to guarantee you interview like a boss:
1) Dress for success
This tip is the first tip because it is perhaps the most important tip I have for you. As they say, first impressions can make or break you. When you walk into that office or restaurant or wherever you happen to be interviewing, you need to look like you're made for success. For guys, a button-down shirt, tie, and dress pants will do. For the ladies, a professional dress, skirt and blouse, or dress pants and a blouse will work just fine. Regardless of what kind of job you're interviewing for, whether it be fast food or a fancy office in the sky, the fact that you're dressed professionally will show the interviewer that your first priority is to be formal in a business setting.
2) Show up early
Wherever you happen to be meeting, you should show up at least ten minutes early. This shows that you can manage your time well and establishes a sense of punctuality. While you wait, briefly go over whatever questions you may have or think about what questions your interviewer might ask. This is also a chance to internally calm yourself if you're nervous.
3) Body language is everything
When you finally meet with your interviewer, it's good manners and seen as very professional to smile, ask if he or she is well, and shake his or her hand. Maintain eye contact to show how genuine your greeting is. The same goes for during the interview itself. When you answer questions or speak, maintain polite eye contact to show that you genuinely mean what you say. You come across a lot better this way instead of staring at the floor and mumbling. Also be sure to take into account the rest of your body language. Plant your feet firmly on the floor and don't wiggle or move in your chair. This shows the interviewer that they have your full, undivided attention because the meeting is important to you.
4) Use good vocabulary
In an interview, it's bad form to use slang or, heaven forbid, curse. When you speak, leave all colloquialism at the door and answer clearly. Sound out all of your words and don't mumble. This tip may sound a bit silly, but there's a big difference between someone who can speak clearly and professionally and someone who mumbles and/or uses improper vocabulary in a business setting.
5) Answer honestly
Possibly one of the worst things you can do in a job interview is lie. Never, ever lie in an interview, even if it seems harmless. Every word you say makes an impression on the person who is speaking with you, so if you do make something up, it's pretty much guaranteed to come back to kick you in the backside later. Answer every question as honestly as you can.
6) Have a copy of your resume with you
Always offer it, and if they turn it down because they already have it on file, it wasn't a useless effort. You still displayed that you're always prepared for any situation.
7) Send a follow up email
After the interview is over and you go home, send an email to the interviewer thanking them for the time and consideration. Sending this email is very important because it shows how much the interview meant to you and how responsibly you're handling it. It adds the extra touch of professionalism, and it might even be the deciding factor towards hiring you!
Take in all of these tips for consideration, and you're bound to have a successful interview. Now get out there and show them you're the employee they absolutely need!
