Ace that Job Interview with These Tips

You've submitted your cover letter and resume. Now you've been called back for an interview. How do you ace that interview and obtain the job of your dreams? These tips will help you excel in that interview.

Do Your Research

Preparation is one of the most important steps in the interview process. Do your research and learn everything you can about the company. You want to know as much as possible about the history of the company, the market in which the company operates, and the organizations competition. In addition, do research on current employees and recruiters, as well as information on the position you desire within the company.

Proper research should help you discover some of the problems the company is currently facing. "Be ready to explain why you think you would be able to solve such problems, citing some of your specific accomplishments to make your case" (Dessler, p. 265-266).

Appear Professional and Enthusiastic

Proper attire is a must at job interviews. In your research, you will have learned what is considered appropriate business attire at the company. In addition, you must be clean and neatly groomed. When meeting the interviewer, be sure to use a firm handshake, maintain eye contact throughout the interview, and smile when appropriate. This will help to convey that you are enthusiastic and assured. First impressions are very important. "Studies show that interviewers make up their minds about the applicant during the early minutes of the interview" (Dessler, 265), so do your best to make a good first impression.

Take Time to Answer Questions

Take your time and think before answering questions during the interview. Do not rush to answer questions. Make sure you understand what the interviewer is asking, think about how you want to answer the question, think about how to be clear in presenting your answer, then answer the question.

Discover and Meet Interviewer's Needs

During the interview, try to discover the needs of the interviewer. Doing this will help you determine what it is you can do to meet those needs. In addition to answering the interviewer's questions, pose questions of your own in order to get the interviewer to express his or her needs. Communicate to the interviewer, as clearly and concisely as possible, why you are the right person to meet the needs of the company. "Describe your own accomplishments in terms of the interviewer's needs" (Dessler, p. 265).

Conclusion

These easy to follow tips will help in any job interview. Acing that interview will be easy if you simply do your research, appear professional and enthusiastic, take time to answer questions, and discover and meet the interviewer's needs.

References

Dessler, G. (2005). "Human Resource Management" (10^th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall