How to Be Prepare for a Successful Job Interview: Part I

The most important thing to bear in mind if you have been invited along to a job interview is that you are a definite candidate in the running for the job opening. It proves that during the initial sifting process, your resume and cover letter stood out. The job interview is the next stage, and it is intended to see whether or not the initial impression formed about you was the correct one. It will also establish if you will be suitable for the position.

Punctuality

Once you have the date and time for the job interview, drive to the location at the time you will need to be there, a day or two in advance. This will help you see what the traffic flow is like, and how long it will take you to get there. Arrive at least 15 minutes early for the interview. This will give you a chance to compose yourself and relax. If you are running late on the day of the interview, due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a car crash ahead, call and let someone know. Ask if you can reschedule the interview for later in the day or if it can be postponed for another day. This common courtesy will not necessarily forfeit the interview for you. However, arriving late without calling ahead of time will.

Men's appearance

Do not underestimate the need to be properly dressed on the day of the interview. For men, this would generally involve wearing a three piece suit, in a conservative colour and cut. Avoid a black suit, as this is associated with funerals and do not wear a red tie! Unless told otherwise by HR or someone else, always wear a suit to the job interview. Pay close attention to detail. Make sure the tie reaches down to the belt, not halfway down the shirt, and wear a white shirt. Make sure shoes are clean, polished and professional looking. This means no sports shoes. Black lace-up shoes are often preferred. Do not wear excessive amounts of jewellry. But it is acceptable to wear a wedding ring. Do not wear any other rings, earrings or a bracelet. Remember that first impressions count. Wear a watch as well. If you do not wear one on the day of the interview, it may send out the wrong message and the interview panel may wonder about your time keeping skills. If they hire you, how can they be sure you will arrive on time each day for work?

Women's appearance

Women must be just as concerned about their appearance as men. Try to choose a neutral skirt suit or a modest dress or trouser suit. If you wear a skirt suit, be aware of the length. Do not wear a skirt above the knee. Highly qualified candidates have been turned down for jobs simply because they wore a short skirt, that was perceived as being provocative. Keep make up low key and hair neatly tied back. Be aware of your use of perfumes or colognes. Strong smells can exacerbate a person's allergies, so it is best to avoid anything that might cause discomfort to someone else. Choose a mild or no scent brand of deodrant as well.

Introduction

The interview panel know that you are likely to be nervous, but do your best to relax. Take a few deep breaths before you enter the room. Smile and shake the hand of each member of the interview panel. For disabled panel members, such as people who have a prosthetic arm, follow their lead. Do not be thrown off guard by someone's disability. Remember to show them equal treatment to other panel members. First impressions are very important. It is not possible to rewind, go back and do it all again. So be pleasant, and show enthusiasm for the job. It is likely to help break the ice and make the rest of the interview much easier to handle.

Be honest

Whatever you do, do not lie when you go for a job interview. This will almost always backfire on you and when it does, you can guarantee that you will not be considered for the position. So be honest and answer each question to the best of your ability. If you have not experienced the situations that are brought up, say so, and then answer with how you believe you would act under the circumstances.

Money issues

The main reason you are applying for the job may well be because of the money, but do not tell the interview panel that. They will not be impressed if you immediately bring up how much you will be paid. They want to see that you are the best person for the job and that you are actually interested in the job, rather than the money. If you go into this issue, you are unlikely to be successful during your job interview. The panel could bring up the issue of money early on. But rather than dwell on it, mention that this is a topic that can be addressed later on during the interview. Say that you would like to concentrate more on the company for the time being, but that you would be more than happy to discuss the compensation package later on. This is the answer they would most like to hear. That way, you are staying on track, but still plan on coming back to the all important topic of money.

Note taking

If you would like to take notes during the interview, make sure you ask permission to do so before the interview begins. The same applies for any questions you may have about the job. Formulate between 6-10 relevant questions. It can be hard to remember them when you are nervous. So write them down, and refer to ask them at the close of the interview. This shows you are prepared and have done your homework. It will work for you, rather than against you.

Follow up

It is important to remember to follow up after the job interview. It shows you are keen about getting the job. Ask if it would be better for you to call, e-mail or fax and when this would be most appropriate. If you can, send a brief thank you note. This is a common courtesy, that is not often seen anymore after job interviews. It will be greatly appreciated. You may have helped sway the minds of the interview panel who were considering you and another candidate for the position. By sending a brief note, you have set yourself apart from the average job applicant. If you follow these steps you will be on your way to landing your dream job. Happy job hunting!