Guide to Interview Preparation
by: Guest
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Feeling nervous at the thought of attending an interview? Don’ worry, it is absolutely normal and ok for you to feel so. However, keep in mind that you would not have been invited to interview unless the interviewers felt that your application showed promise and proved your suitability for the job. So, your next step should be to show your interviewers that you are as good if not better than your application. Remember that the key to any successful interview is the preparation that goes before it. Basically, there are three types of preparation required before you attend interviews:
• Psychological preparation
• Practical preparation
• Intellectual preparation
Psychological preparation: Approach the interview with a positive frame of mind and confidence. Remember that the interviewers have only one purpose in mind and that is to ascertain your suitability for the job opening. They would like to see an enthusiastic candidate but will not expect a ‘word perfect’ performance from you.
Practical preparation: Finding out as much as possible beforehand about the format of the interview process will not only help you to be more prepared, but will also ease your mind. It is also good to double check all the travel arrangements to the interview location and to know how long it will take you to get there so that you can plan your time and be there a little in advance. Please remember to carry:
- A copy of your resume
- Interview invitation letter with the organization’s telephone number and contact person
- A list of questions you would like to ask the interviewers
- Money and clothes if you are staying overnight
Wear something that is comfortable and appropriate for the interview. Avoid too much make-up, ornaments and strong perfume or after-shave. A mock interview can also be very helpful especially if you receive feedback on the same. Think about how you would go about tackling the most difficult questions and prepare a list of points about yourself in accordance with the job description and person specifications that you want to get across to the interviewers. You want to make sure that they remember these points while making their final decision regarding your fitment for the job.
Intellectual preparation: You have to work on four key areas namely knowledge of yourself, knowledge about the job, knowledge of the organization and your questions for the interviewer or employer.
Be conscious of your body language and avoid personal idiosyncrasies like playing with your hair or nail biting. Make sure to always maintain eye contact with the interviewer. This portrays your interest in the job that they have to offer.
Remember that you have only one chance to make a good first impression on your interviewers. If you are nervous at the start, it does not necessarily mean that you won’t have time to regain your confidence and balance to show your real strengths during the remainder of the interview. However, starting with a confident smile and a firm, strong handshake can go a long way in setting a positive scene for the interview.
About the Author
Eleena Mathew Thejobslist.org
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