It's that time of the year where all the college students are either booked for interviews for a summer job or an internship.We worked hard on those applications and the research to find the various jobs and internships that will add value to or educational experience. The one thing left to do is the interview process. Many people find this to be a nerve-wrecking experience and would much rather skip the interview process overall. I actually love interviews because that gets a chance to show the company that you are more than just the degree you plan to pursue. Here are a few interview tips that will help with getting through this tough interview process:
1. Know what your strengths and weaknesses are.
This is a very popular interview questions and my personal favorite. Preparing for such a question influences you to get in tune with who you are and understand how you will be an asset to the company. Being aware of weakness shows that you know that there is space for room and development in your character and being aware of your strengths shows that you know when you will be able to take the lead in specific tasks. Tip: If both strengths and weaknesses are asked in a single question, start with your weakness and end with your strength to leave a good impression.
2. Know the company that you plan to work with.
Research, research, research. The interview process is much like dating. Most time before going on a date to ask direct questions, we find out as much as we can to be prepared and ensure that their core goals and values fit ours. It is important that you know what the company you are applying to is about, what their core goals and values are and what they look for from their employees.
3. Let your personality shine, don't fake it.
Let's look at it this way. Say your interview goes really well and they think you're a great fit! Then you get hired, start your job and can no longer fake what you did show in the first place. Never fake it or try to be someone you're not, be yourself and the right fit will come along. Chances are if you feel like you have to be something other from who you are to get a job then it really wasn't meant for you.
4. Know your proper food etiquette.
If it's a lunch/dinner interview, read up on proper food etiquette. Some interviewers do watch for table manners and you don't want to ruin that just because you used the wrong fork.
5. Have a firm handshake.
A firm handshake shows confidence and can be used to communicate trust and goodwill. Practice your handshakes with friends before your interview if it is in person. You don't want one that is too limp but you're also not trying to have a death-grip.
6. Share professional and personal interests.
Interviews depend a lot on the person conducting the interview. Some can be very formal and others a little less formal. Throughout many of my interviews, even though my interviewer was interested in my professional interests, that was all on paper in my resume and cover letter along with other official documents. What they didn't know was my personal interest and many times during an interview that is when they can learn some more about your personal interests and character to see if you will be a good fit. Be sure to strike a balance between both sides.
7. Set yourself apart from the rest.
Why should a company hire you over the other 500 applicants? Think about some unique qualities that you have and how that could be a very valuable asset to the company. Make yourself stand out so that after the interview there will be no questions about why they should hire you.
8. Keep good eye contact.
It is important to have good eye contact during an interview. No eye contact or very little eye contact shows lack of interest, lack of confidence. Very intense staring however can be a little creepy. Just relax and stay engaged.
9. Body language.
Verbal communication is a thing, but so is non-verbal communication as well. Body language is said to be a true representation of how we feel and sometimes they speak more for us than we even realize. Slumped shoulders can show lack of interest. Noding your head while listening can show effective listening. Such small non-verbal ques but they still say a lot so look out for them.
10. Have questions to ask your interviewer.
You always want to have questions after an interview. Let's go back to the idea that an interview is like dating your potential bae (in this case your potential company). Imagine after bae has told you a little about themselves and asked you about yourself too, then it's your turn, and you end the date with an "I have no questions, can I get the check please." Wow, what a curve. Exactly, lack of questions after an interview shows that there might not be much interest in the job position since there is no possible way you could know everything about the company. It's always good to get inside perspective during an interview. Find out how working with the company has challenged previous employees and what are the top skills that your employer is looking for.
11. Think positive and close on a positive note.
Positivity always wins! Smile and have a pleasant face during your interview. People will always remember how you make them feel and who doesn't love being around positive and uplifting people? Be confident and leave a good taste with your interviewer so that they won't have to think once about hiring you for that summer position you've been dreaming about!
