THESE 4 CRUCIAL JOB INTERVIEW STRATEGIES WILL SET YOU APART

Author: Aldin Beslagic Published: Sept. 2019


An interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to an employer, so it pays to be well prepared. The following information provides some helpful hints.

I. Preparation:

  • Learn about the organization.

  • Have a specific job or jobs in mind.

  • Review your qualifications for the job.

  • Be ready to briefly describe your experience, showing how it relates it the job.

  • Be ready to answer broad questions, such as “Why should I hire you?” “Why do you want this job?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

  • Practice an interview with a friend or relative.

II. Personal appearance:

  • Be well groomed.

  • Dress professionally.

  • Do not chew gum or smoke.

III. The interview:

  • Be early.

  • Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a firm handshake.

  • Use good manners with everyone you meet.

  • Relax and answer each question concisely.

  • Use proper English—avoid slang.

  • Be cooperative and enthusiastic.

  • Use body language to show interest—use eye contact and don’t slouch.

  • Ask questions about the position and the organization, but avoid questions whose answers can easily be found on the company Web site.

  • Also avoid asking questions about salary and benefits unless a job offer is made.

  • Thank the interviewer when you leave and shake hands.

  • Send a short thank you note following the interview.

IV. Information to bring to an interview:

  • Resume or application. Although not all employers require a resume, you should be able to furnish the interviewer information about your education, training, and previous employment.

  • References. Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good professional references.

  • Transcripts. Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.