In my last blog I talked about how to go about getting that perfect job. Ok, you have done everything as you should have and now you have an interview!!
Don’t panic! Yes, it may have been awhile since you were out on a real interview so practice, practice, practice! how do I do that you might ask, and what do I wear? And what should I say and what if they don’t like me?
Rule #1
DO YOUR RESEARCH ON THE COMPANY! Nothing will be more embarrassing than if you don’t know what the product or service is of the company you are applying to. If the information is available, you will also want to know a bit of the history of the company (e.g., what year it started), who the key executives are and what the philosophy of the company is (e.g., customer satisfaction is everything). In short, YOU MUST COME PREPARED! Everything you will need to know should be on the Internet or Google.com
Rule #2
DRESS FOR SUCCESS! You don’t have to spend a lot of money to look good. Less is more so ladies, no chunky jewellery, low tops or very short skirts. Men, please wear a suit or sport jacket and slacks (ties when appropriate) and always look professional! No chewing gum, no hats, cell phones off sit up straight with a positive relaxed look.
Rule #3
STAY FOCUSED! Eye to eye contact is crucial to a good interview. Exude confidence and tell yourself you will get this job. If you are snappy or seem bored the recruiter will pick up on this very easily “ remember, they’ve seen many potentials over time and will know more about you in a short time than you might expect. Yes, you have been looking for awhile but don’t show anxiety or it will absolutely come out during the interview. Keep your neediness under wraps during the entire process.
Rule #4
YOUR BEST APPROACH! Don’t think I can learn a lot from your company if I get this job, rather say, I think I can contribute a lot to your company if you’ll give me a chance to prove myself. Let them know that you want to help the company grow and prosper.
In other words, it’s not about your wants, but what the company wants. You want to say words that perks someones ear up, not words that will turn an employer off. Be careful not to talk too much about yourself and ask questions only if the interviewer asks, do you have any questions?
Rule #5
SALARY! The initial interview is NOT the time to discuss salary. The purpose of your first interview is to let them get to know you, to let you find out what the job is about so that you can see if it’s something you want to do. If the interviewer brings up salary and your expectations, tell them that while it is important, you really want to see if the job will be a good fit for the both of you. If they persist, then you can discuss salary but do not get carried away.
Rule #6
HOW TO END THE INTERVIEW
When the interview is over, offer the interviewer a firm handshake shake (nothing is worse than a limp hand!) Do not be afraid to ask when they might be making a decision and if they think you have the skills and qualifications to be a qualified candidate. Let them know you are very interested in the position and if you should contact them for a decision or if you will be hearing from them. Thank the person very much for his/her time and let them know you enjoyed meeting them and are excited about the prospect of working for the company.
Rule #7
THE THANK YOU NOTE
Always send a Thank you for seeing me note/email at the end of each interview to whoever interviewed you. Even a better idea , if you can, is to drop off the hand written note and leave it with the receptionist. Just that One above the crowd extra step!