how to prepare for an interview? Secret 5 interview tips
You've completed high school or college and are now prepared to begin your first real' career. You've sent out your resumes and been scheduled for your first interview. How are you going to do well in the interview? How to prepare for an interview? So you're going to take the job?
Let's go through the most important 5 interview tips.
1. Dress professionally.
You're headed to work, not the beach, so no midriff shirts, low-cut blouses, or flip-flops. While a suit isn't required, it is important to present yourself in a professional manner. Don't dress as if you're going to a concert if you're looking to acquire a job at a conservative workplace like an accounting firm. You have a little more leeway if you're applying for a retail job. Rather than listing what is and is not appropriate attire, I would advise you to dress as if you were meeting one of the most important persons in your life—because you are!
2. Make sure you are well-groomed.
Don't appear as if you just rolled out of bed and couldn't care less about your personal hygiene. Unwashed hair, filthy fingernails, or body odor will cause the HR Manager to end the interview sooner rather than later. You will be a reflection of the company as an employee, and no customer wants to do business with someone who is untidy.
3. Be aware of your body language.
A firm handshake at the start of the interview shows you are self-confident. Maintain eye contact, stay relaxed and be attentive to the interviewer. Ask questions and listen thoughtfully to the answers. Think before you answer questions from the interviewer- don’t ramble and keep the conversation on the topic.
4. Be prepared for the interview.
Before you go, do some research on the firm. Nearly every company today has a website where you can learn about what they do and who their customers are. This demonstrates to the interviewer that you are enthusiastic about the work and have taken the time to learn everything you can about the firm.
5. Be present in the interview.
I've conducted interviews with candidates who pretended to be waiting for a bus. They didn't ask any questions, instead simply listening to what I had to say, and I wasn't sure if they were paying attention. Ask questions and participate in the interview with zeal. I asked one candidate if this sounded like something she'd be interested in after detailing all of the duties required of the role. "I can do the job," she said quietly. She didn't respond to my query, appeared uninterested, and was not hired. If you can't get thrilled at an interview, you won't be able to become energized at work.
Types of interview
There are multiple types of employment interviews. In some circumstances, you may only need to be successful in one of these to get the job. In some cases, especially at major graduate companies, you may be subjected to many interview formats during the application process.
Face-to face
The most popular and traditional type of interview. You'll go to the employer's office and be questioned by an individual or a panel about your suitability for the position. Face-to-face interviews often last 45 minutes to two hours, and tests and exercises may be administered before or after the interview. Questions may be competency-based or strength-based.
Telephone
Employers frequently use this method to filter huge numbers of applications early in the application process. If you are chosen, you will most likely be invited to a face-to-face interview or an assessment center. A phone interview should last about half an hour.
Video
Large organizations are becoming more interested in online applications, especially for graduate programs. Video interviews are usually half an hour long and can be live or pre-recorded. Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, which saw the bulk of items shift online, these have become increasingly popular.
Assessment centres
Employers will be able to compare the performance of a large number of candidates at the same time. You'll participate in tasks including presentations, team exercises, and psychometric exams at an assessment center with other applicants. Assessment centers are normally held over the course of a full working day and have lately been adapted to be held online.
First impressions are important, and you want to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position, are happy to work hard, and will give it your all. You may not be the most qualified candidate, but you will still get hired because you are the most amazing. Best of luck!
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