It may sound odd, but an interview can be much like
a first date. Instead of the potential of entering into a relationship with a
person, you have the potential to enter into a working relationship with an
employer. Like a first date, no initial interview is ever the same. First dates are all about hitting it off, the
possibility of a good fit, and seeing yourself together in the future. These same
rules also apply to an interview, but obviously in a different context. For
instance, you want to make a good impression with your interviewer because s/he
could be your future boss; you want the interviewer to feel you would be a
great addition to the company and fit in well with the corporate culture and other
employees. As importantly, you need to be able to see yourself happily
employed with the company in the future. With all of this in mind, here are a
few tips to ensure an impeccable (and successful) interview.
-The First
Impression. The first five minutes
of an interview are crucial. It is your only opportunity to make a great first
impression. Start it off right by
arriving early; being appropriately dressed; having extra copies of your resume
and other appropriate documents on hand; offering a great attitude, and
introducing yourself with a firm handshake and a smile.
-Table
Talk. Most interviews start off with small talk which is a perfect time to make
a personal connection with your interviewer. Once that winds down though, be prepared to jump right in to answer the
tough questions. Many times we are so eager to share our well-practiced
“elevator pitch” that we don’t listen to the question(s) being asked. Be an active listener; this is something an
employer is typically looking for as well. Throughout the interview, look for
certain cues from your interviewer, so you’ll know when you can incorporate comments,
key attributes, and relevant experiences. It is also equally as important to
prepare your own questions regarding office culture, job expectations, etc. Finally, when the interview comes to a close
make sure you exit it with the same amount of energy that you entered with.
-The
Follow up. It’s important to always
follow up after the interview (even if you don’t want the job). You can do this
in two ways. First, send a quick thank you email within 24-48 hours of your
meeting; second, send a lengthier handwritten thank you note within a few days. Not only is this a great personal touch, but
it also provides another opportunity for
you to highlight some of the topics you discussed during the interview and briefly
elaborate on anything you feel you may have omitted during your in-person visit.
Finally, to interview impeccably it is critical that you
believe in yourself, so your interviewer will too. You have to believe you are qualified and are
the best person for the job at hand. Confidence
is palpable and will go a long way in helping to secure your next opportunity!
Photo Courtesy of OpenClips
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