The basic traits of being
prompt, how you speak and carry yourself and even how you dress are all factors
that contribute in making a lasting impression that will eventually get you
hired. Here are 6 Easy Steps to Improve Your Interviewing Skills:
1.) Prepare for the interview.
First, dress appropriately. Once
the interviewer walks into the room, or once you walk into the room to be
interviewed, your appearance will be the first thing to make the impact. Dress
appropriately, check your grooming and mind your posture.
2.) Research.
Use all your resources to make
sure that you know the basics about the company. Learn about your potential
employer. In your mind, develop a clear picture of the company profile. Make
sure that you prepared answers to a few basic questions, but do not sound
scripted. This happens when you rehearse what you will be saying word for word.
3.) Be cool.
Make sure to start on a positive
note and set the proper expectations. Make a great first impression by
maintaining eye contact, giving the interviewer a firm handshake, a friendly
smile and a polite greeting. Sit only when you are asked to do so and do not
forget to thank the interviewer for taking time off of his or her busy schedule
to interview you.
4.) Do not sell yourself short.
In the course of the interview,
answer the questions briefly and accurately. The key is to be honest. Make sure
that as a prospective employee, you impart to your future employer what you
really are and what you can do for the company, not the other way around. Stay
positive and do not give a bad impression about your previous employer.
If you are applying for your
first job, do not let your lack of experience hinder you from gaining the
advantage against more experienced applicants. What you lack in experience, make
up for in confidence and eagerness to learn. Ask yourself, if I were on the
other side of this desk, what qualities should I look for in a potential
employee? Would I profit if he works for me and can he contribute to the
development of the company?
5.) Ask questions.
Should you encounter a difficult
interviewer, do not be intimidated. One who does not let you put in a word
edgewise should be lightly reminded that you should do most of the talking since
he is the one who needs to learn more about you.
6.) Follow up.
Send that all-important thank
you note after the interview. Thank the interviewer for the time that he took
with you and for giving you that opportunity. A lot of research has been made
about the interviewing process.
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