New Year, New Opportunities

By Joseph Molina www.vccsd.org

Preparing for a Job Interview

Your job interview is one of the most important steps in your job search process — it’s your best opportunity to show a hiring manager or recruitment firm you’re the best candidate. It is important to reflect on your goals and qualifications in relation to the position and the employer when preparing for an interview. In this article, we will be providing you with the best tips and tricks and steps to take when preparing for an interview. They are as follows:

Practice Interview Etiquette

It is important to follow proper interview etiquette. Whenever you meet a receptionist, your interviewer, or anyone else, remember to greet them politely, pleasantly, and enthusiastically. Some interview etiquette is as follows: • Observe your body language • Shake hands firmly • Make sure you make eye contact when expressing your points • Pay attention • Be attentive • Look interested There are also specific etiquette tips depending on the type of interview you have, for example, a lunch or dinner interview, a panel interview, a phone interview, or a video interview.

Dress Code

The number of employers who allow casual dress at work is growing, making it harder than ever for candidates to choose an interview outfit. Depending on the company, the industry it operates in, and the culture it promotes, you may be expected to wear a particular type of clothing. The standards of a small creative agency, for example, may differ from those of a large accountancy firm. Be sure to ask about the dress code before the interview if you are unsure.

Research the Company

Getting to know the company and the job thoroughly is important before you attend a job interview. Take a look at the “About Us” section on the company website to get concise understanding of the company. Reading articles about the company in industry magazines or websites can help you understand how the organization compares to others in the same industry. You can also check out company reviews from clients and current and former employees. Bear in mind that the interview is just as much about you finding a good fit for your work environment as it is about the company finding a good fit for the role. Knowing that your values align with the company ensures a happy professional life

Listen and Ask Questions

During a job interview, be ready to engage the interviewer. You want there to be give-and-take in the conversation, so you’re building a relationship with the interviewer rather than just providing rote responses to questions. Have questions of your own ready to ask the interviewer. Toward the end of the interview, let the recruiter know that you believe the job is an excellent fit and that you are highly interested.

Examine the Job Description

During your prep work, you should use the employer’s posted job description as a guide. The job description is a list of the qualifications, qualities and background the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate. The more you can align yourself with these details, the more the employer will be able to see that you are qualified. The job description may also give you ideas about questions the employer may ask throughout the interview.

In summary: Keep in mind of the basic principles:

• Punctuality — Ensure that you are ontime for the interview, it is preferred that you arrive at lest 15 minutes ahead schedule. • Positivity and enthusiasm — Be enthusiastic, show that you really want to work for the company and that you have the right level of motivation. • Body language — Body language is critical, show confident, positive attitude and professionalism.

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