Interviews are stressful, nerve wrecking and all around awkward about 95% of the time. No one teaches you exactly how to go act during an interview, nor how to prepare for it. We have all been there at one point or another, left knowing that afterwards, there was no chance of landing that job. In fact, I have left interviews feeling horrendous about my performance, which most likely meant the manager never wanted me anywhere near the building again.
The interview process really starts the night before, so what do you wear? Is your resume printed? Is there anything good on that resume of yours? Have you thought about what questions they will ask? What about your hair, how should that look? There are too many little things to keep in mind, but at least make it look like your life is not really as much of a mess at is- for starters.
As for a resume, BRING IT. Even if it is your very first job interview, fill that paper with everything you could think of. If you were you a girl scout, throw that on there. Alright, maybe not that far back, but think of any volunteer work, babysitting and fundraising events you can and put them on your resume. Be confident about yourselves, and make sure to include your strengths. Keep in mind that a resume is your one chance the brag about yourself, so take advantage of that.
Side note, if you are about to go to your first interview ever, DO NOT FORGET A PEN AND PAPER.
Here is a little background about the importance of that. When I was 17, looking for a job was a challenge, because people do not want to hire high school students. I walked into the fast food place so full of nerves only to find out it was an open interview, meaning there was a LINE of other cashier candidates stacked up right in front of me. After being slightly frazzled, I put on my most confident face and went to go sign in, but behold I did not have a pen. I had applied online and had a piece of paper, but no pen. Realizing this was an interview for a fast food chain and not for a spot in the White House, I assumed it would not be to disrespectful to ask for one. Seems pretty simple, right? SO WRONG. I have never been more embarrassed than when the manager scolded me for my unpreparedness right before the interview.
Further more, meeting the manager is a big deal, but do not let this crank up your nerves. They are aware that people are going to be scared about an interview, so all you could do is your best. Think of things about yourself that are true and believe that you are capable. Be sure to be confident, but do not over exaggerate and never lie- especially not an interview.
If there is a point in the interview in which you have no clue what you are saying--fake it till you make it. I know this may sound contradictory to the "never lie" statement but it actually is not. If you are uncomfortable, act comfortable. If you think your answer to a question will not stand out from other candidates, say it with confidence anyways. You could get the job just based on your personality, if they love you.
Just one more quick reminder, do not forget that piece of paper and a pen.
