JOB INTERVIEW/ HIS HAPPENED TO ME

Preparing For The Interview

Don’t just turn up

Photo by Resume Genius on Unsplash

So you applied for a particular job, got accepted, and now you have an interview. You may feel nervous, apprehensive, or that you will succeed.

It’s better not to think you will succeed, as it tends to make us lazy. Confidence is good, but not overconfidence. It breeds laziness and arrogance, which will be spotted right away.

Our appearance is important at the interview. Make sure you hair is tidy and not a distraction.

• Try to watch staff leaving the building of where you wish to work. Notice what they wear; smart casual, smart, or very relaxed. Some companies which don’t meet the public allow more leeway in appearance.
• Don’t wear something for the first time at the interview. You need to feel comfortable and confident. So, if you do buy a new outfit for the occasion, wear it beforehand so you know you won’t be too hot, itchy, or worried about some other aspect. Wear what makes you feel confident.
• Choose colours that suit you, but avoid bright colours. If you’re a man, pick out a subdued suit, and add colour with your tie. Women should chose non-garish colours, and look smart, even if the dress code is relaxed. Slobs don’t get hired.
• Avoid jeans. A good T shirt and casual trousers are far better
• If you are male, cover any dyed hair with your natural colour. Some employers don’t like dyed hair on men. If this is a deal breaker, this isn’t the job for you.
• Always express thanks for the opportunity. This might well tip the scales in your favour.

Make sure you know about the job and the employer. This is important as you will be asked how you will fit in and any relevant history. If you know nothing about this, you will not get the job.

Prepare questions to ask when you are given the opportunity. These might be about professional development, possible promotions, flexibility about working hours, and what you can uniquely offer to the post.

• Smile
• Shake hands
• Sit after the interviewer has sat down, unless they indicate otherwise.
• Be yourself

Don’t try to be perfect, it will show. The interviewer is human too. If they fail you on a minor detail, they are not worth working for,

I have had several interviews, including a group interview. I smiled and listened to what the others answered. I was the first to have a question, and I was so nervous. I did not let it show but thought quickly, and answered as well as I could.

I was successful, and later learned that only one in eleven make it through the interview.