Let’s set the scene: you just graduated from college, got a good degree, and you are looking forward to landing the job you have been wanting for years now. But, let’s be honest: you are a little nervous. And by that, we mean really nervous. This job means a lot to you, but you know that if you don’t interview well you won’t get the job. And if you don’t get the job, you won’t get a paycheck. And then you won’t have a house. And then your girlfriend will leave you. And then you will be homeless, and then you will die alone in the street when winter sets in.
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Well, not necessarily. But you still really want this job. So here are some tips to wow your interviewer and make sure you land that job, get the paycheck, get the house, and live happily ever after.
Dress for Success
Walk into that room looking like you mean business. Of course, you don’t want to overdress; just look like you are supposed to be where you are. Wear something nice that fits to the venue you’re interviewing at. If you are trying to get a job at a law firm, dress like the other people in the office would. If you don’t look like you are serious about the job, your interviewer won’t take you seriously. It’s as simple as that. People will invariably judge you by your cover, and you want to make sure that your cover is appealing and says what you want it to say about you.
Prepare Beforehand for Frequently-Asked Interview Questions
This is important for making sure that you don’t get caught off-guard by a question that your interviewer may pose. Be prepared to answer questions such as “what is your greatest weakness” and “tell me a little about yourself,” even “why do you want this job.” Being ready to answer those questions and having semi-prepared answers will help your interview to go smoothly as well as make you feel more prepared for the more difficult questions that your interviewer may ask you.
Remember: when answering these questions, focus on the qualities you want your interviewer to see in you. If you are applying for a position that requires you to be a creative problem solver, have an anecdote prepared that describes, in detail, an instance in which a creative idea that you had successfully solved a problem in the workplace. Come off as confident and comfortable, but not arrogant, and you will give yourself a much better chance of nailing the interview and successfully acquiring the job.
Research the Company You Applied to Beforehand
You’re going to want to know about the company you’re applying to before you interview with them. This helps in several areas. Firstly, you’ll be able to tailor your answers to what the company is about, helping you to more efficiently and effectively answer the questions they pose you. Also, it will make you seem more informed and intelligent if you actually know what the company you applied to does and specializes in.
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Today’s guest post was provided by John Monts, blogger for CareerRelay.com. According to him, asking yourself “what career is right for me?” is one of the most important decisions you will ever make.
