There are some basic techniques that will help the interview process go more smoothly, and allow you to have confidence and poise during the job interview. It's important to be well-groomed, well-informed and well-rested. Beyond those tips, anticipate questions you'll be asked and practice your answers, and keep a positive attitude.
Make a Good First Impression.
Like it or not, the first impression the interviewer has of you is how you are dressed. There is no more sure way to lose the chance at a job than to be dressed in wrinkled, unkempt clothes. It won't matter how smart or how qualified you are if you aren't well groomed and neatly dressed. Be sure you have good hygiene as well. Brush your teeth, comb your hair, have clean, trimmed fingernails. It sounds like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised.
Know Your Stuff.
Find out as much as you can about the company for which you hope to work. Visit the company website and check newspaper archives for articles about the company. Who is the CEO? What is the company mission statement? Where is their corporate headquarters? These are all important questions to find the answers to because you'll have gleaned some ideas about the dynamics of the company.
Introduce Yourself With Confidence.
Use a firm, relaxed handshake when introducing yourself. Wait for direction on where to sit, unless there is only one option. Take a deep breath and smile. Open your notepad and take out your copy of your resume. Let the interviewer begin the conversation.
During the Interview.
Answer questions completely, but don't elaborate. Don't use two- or three-word responses, but done drone on and on either. If the interviewer raises objections (indicates a negative) about your experience, education or background, don't argue. Don't interrupt the interviewer. Confirm their assumption and then offer your counter to their objection. That means you need to go into the interview knowing what the possible objections will be. Have an extra copy of your resume with you and use it to point out the ways your past experience and training in other arenas has prepared you for this job.
Show that you have prepared thoroughly for the interview.
Ask the interviewer about his/her current job and career with the company. Ask questions or make comments based on the research you've done ahead of time, but don't overdo it. Clarify the job description posted in the classified ad or on line at the company website. Ask specific questions about the job: who you'll be working with, how many employees are in the department, if you'll be supervising any employees, etc. Use the interviewer's name when making comments or responding to questions.
Don't discuss salary.
This is a very touchy area and there are two schools of thought: Do and Don't! I generally recommend not bringing up the topic of salary unless the interviewer asks you about your expectations. In that case, don't necessarily give a salary expectation. A great response could be, “I have a range that I am hoping for, but I also realize that benefits, company work climate and other perks are important as well. I would be willing to discuss any salary offered to me.” That way you haven't shut the door, but you've also not either cheated yourself out of a potentially higher salary than you expected, or priced yourself out of a second interview!
Don't Leave Until The Interview is Over!
Allow the interviewer to end the meeting. If there is a pause in the conversation, be patient. Don't feel you need to fill the void, and don't get up to leave! Wait until the interviewer thanks you for your time, or makes another indication that the interview has ended. When it is over, sincerely thank the interviewer for meeting with you and express a positive attitude about the company and the position.
Send a Thank You Note.
I've had folks argue this point. Trust me. It's important. You will definitely stand out in the interviewer's mind. It shows you genuinely appreciated their time and that you bothered to take the initiative to follow up. A small gesture like a thank you note could win you a second interview or a job offer. I know of what I speak!
Good Luck in your job search.
