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The job interview is where you can assess a company and it is where you have to sell your skills. This requires the use of an effective job interview technique.
The interview is your chance to communicate your ability and skills directly to the potential employer. An interview is an opportunity for both parties to get to know each other and to determine if there is potential for a match. Because interviewing is a skill, anyone can learn
to interview effectively. Most people find interviewing to be a terrifying prospect. Remember
that the key to a successful interview is preparation and careful listening.
Interview Tips
Make sure your hair is neat - get a haircut if possible. Dress in conservative business attire, composed of a dark suit, polished shoes, white shirt or blouse, and, for men, a conservative tie. All clothes should be neat clean and pressed. Avoid excessive jewelry, makeup, cologne or perfume.
Learn pertinent facts about the company such as annual sales revenue, principal lines of business and locations. Know yourself
and know your resume and be able to easily provide examples
of your selling points, skills, values, and strengths.
During the interview, sit up straight in the chair or lean forward slightly and DO NOT slouch! Establish yourself as a self confident and assertive person without being confrontational, cocky or aggressive. Remember to be yourself but to also present a professional, polished version of yourself.
Answer job interview questions directly. Be confident without being arrogant. At the same time, admit to your weaknesses if they are brought up, but do not bring them up. Instead, concentrate on your strengths. Demonstrate energy, determination, enthusiasm, motivation and passion for your work.
Prove that you are genuinely interested in the company by showing that you have researched the organization. You should always ask the interviewer a few good questions.
Answer tough interview questions honestly and completely - but be wary. Do not dwell on negatives and you should avoid mentioning them. Sell yourself on your true capabilities and qualifications without exaggerating your abilities. If you are asked a technical question and you do not know the answer, do not bluff. If your bluff fails, your candidacy will be seriously threatened. Instead, say "I do not know the answer, but if I were to venture an educated guess I would say...". Never speak negatively about another person or company.
The questions that you ask are just as critical as the responses that you give. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your intelligence, common sense and your interest in the position to the employer. By posing good questions to an interviewer, you will gain additional useful information about the opportunity.
Concentrate on the broad view of the company and on specific details about the position at hand. Focus on four areas during your job interview: the company, the job opportunity, the interviewer and the closing.
Keep them interested. After the interview, you should send a short thank you letter to refresh the employer's memory of your candidacy and to reaffirm your interest in the position.
Allow the employer five to ten days to contact you after receiving your letter. If you still have not heard from an employer, you should follow up with a phone call.
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