It's a job seeker's worst nightmare--bombing an interview. Sometimes this is easier than you think. Preparation is really the best way to prevent this but occasionally you can bomb an interview without even knowing it. In all honesty, employers know from the beginning whether they want to hire you or not, your "job" is to confirm or deny their suspicions about your personality or potential job performance. That is why first impressions count. Currently, employers don't rely on fancy titles, positions or degrees that you have; they are more interested in the person in front of the mirror and behind their desk.
In fact, a large majority of employers ask that job seekers take a personality test before being considered for a position. They want to weed out the troublemakers from the rest of the crowd. Can you blame them? Here are some ways to prepare to win in your next interview.
1. Attend mock interviews either at your school or local career center.
Mock interviews are one of the best ways to prepare for an interview. As an applicant, you don't want to get tripped up on basic interview questions. This is a red flag for employers that you are definitely not prepared for them or their company. This is a surefire way to fail your interview. Practicing mock interviews will help you gain the confidence to express yourself as professional and to show your potential employer that you are not just answering questions generically.
2. Do your research and ask questions.
Employers like to see that you have done research on their company. It shows general interest and initiative. Asking questions (again not general) also impresses employers. Avoid asking questions about pay, vacation time and time off when interviewing. Instead ask about the history of the company, the type of culture it represents and even what their plans for future will be.
3. Don't overdress. don't underdress.
This may seem obvious but there have been many occasions where I have seen job seekers come to an interview wearing shorts, flip flops, jeans and t-shirts and wonder what were they thinking. The best advice is to dress business casual. A nice pair of slacks or dress pants and knee length skirt and blouse for the ladies are all acceptable to wear. I would avoid wearing your Sunday best or a tuxedo to a job interview. It makes it look like you are trying too hard or are extremely desperate.
4. Hygiene will give you high marks.
This should also go without saying. Body odor is nothing to smile about and also would not be a good topic of conversation for an interviewer to have about you behind your back. Wearing strong perfume is also frowned upon. Be conservative and wear a light unscented cologne or perfume.
5. Etiquette makes a difference.
Sitting up straight and establishing eye contact is extremely important. Using too many slang, curse words or worse ebonics is truly a sure fire way to fail an interview. You are an intelligent human being--speak like one.
