The Ultimate Guide to Being an Interview Pro

The Ultimate Guide to Being an Interview Pro A job interview is always a daunting experience. The pressure to perform, show your personality,  be bright and engaging, convey your skill set, all whilst being calm and collected is no easy feat. However, with preparation, poise and a pleasant smile you’ll find the interview will go much  smoother than once imagined. Remember, you have already passed the first hurdle: the interviewer  liked your CV. Now is your time to impress face to face. Here are a few helpful tips and tricks that  will leave a lasting impression on your interviewer and, hopefully, secure the job in question: Before: Preparation First and foremost, to succeed in an interview, preparation is key.  To be uncertain  of the company, the job specification or what to expect in general, will put you at a  disadvantageous position. Therefore, initially, make sure you research the role you have  applied for. Why do you want to get this job? What is it that makes you excited about  the role? You must show the employer that you have a passion for the position and are  interested in pursuing a career in the given sector. Research Secondly, research the company you are meeting.  What are they like as a company: creative  or corporate? Big or small? Buzzy or quiet? These are things that are important to gage prior  to the interview, firstly, to work out whether you are right for the company as a whole, and  secondly, to present yourself and act accordingly in the interview itself. Take a look at the  company’s website to get a better insight into their recent developments and successes.  Articulating this information to your interviewer will show you have initiative, as well as  conveying that you have a true interest in becoming part of the team. Answers A further recommendation is to prepare answers to some ‘mock’ questions. Interviewers will  often ask you to define your skills or how you are as a person, and then expect you to back it  up with examples. If you can ensure you have these examples to hand, you will find yourself  able to answer questions confidently and without hesitation. However, potential employers  want to know the real you, so make sure not to sound overly rehearsed. It is important to  come across as natural and at ease. During: First impression Research has shown that an individual will subconsciously make their mind up about  another in the first 30 seconds of meeting. On that basis, a great first impression is  absolutely crucial when attending an interview. Give yourself plenty of time to get there,  arriving a little early to show you have good time keeping skills. On greeting the interviewer,  smile warmly and give a confident handshake. Eye contact is also very important so keep a  steady gaze and make sure to maintain this throughout. Attire What you are wearing and how you physically present yourself will contribute to how you  are first perceived, so you need to make sure you are dressed to impress. If the company is  very corporate, wear a smart suit and have your hair neat and tidy. If the company is more  creative, you may want to dress slightly more casual, so long as you are clean and smart.  Most importantly, make sure you look and feel good, as this will reflect in your interview  technique. Sell yourself Once in the interview, keeping calm and answering the questions in an articulate, concise  and composed manner is what matters most. Concentrate on why you are the best person  for the job. Often, in the job specification, there will be a list of competencies and qualities  that the potential employer is looking for. Revert back to your prepared examples here in  order to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and personality to fill the position  perfectly. Dont panic Be aware that not everything can be premeditated. It is likely that you will be asked a  question you had neither expected nor planned for. Don’t panic and stay calm. Think the  question through properly before answering whilst keeping your composure. This will be  sure to impress the interviewer. Positivity A positive attitude is imperative. Try not to be negative about previous roles you have had  in the past as it can portray an unenthusiastic or bitter attitude to work. If you have had a  negative experience with a past employer, simply say it did not work out or it was time to  move on. Concentrate on your positivity and enthusiasm for the current role rather than  reflecting on the past. Friendly Lastly, try to keep things friendly and relaxed throughout. Building a rapport is important  as it shows that you are easy to get on with. It will also give your interviewer an insight into  how well you would fit in with the company and rest of the staff. Ask questions Often in an interview, you will be given the chance to ask your own questions. This is your  time to find out about more about the company: their culture, strengths and goals. You  can also clarify anything you may not fully understand about what they do as a company or  what the role encompasses. By asking questions it shows that you are inquisitive and also  demonstrates your interest in the job. After: Once out of the interview, say good-bye to your interviewer, again, with a firm handshake  and a smile. Tell them you look forward to hearing from them, and, if the moment seems  right, ask for their business card. Once home, you could even send an email thanking them  for their time. This shows how keen you are for the role and will be sure to put you in good  stead with your potential employer. By following these tips, you can really impress. Preparation, selling yourself, good body language  and asking questions will all contribute towards a great interview. But most importantly, be yourself. Good luck! Author: Kate Dow is from atticrecruitment.co.uk  who  specialise in PA, Secretarial and Graduate Recruitment.