How to Prepare for a Job Interview Do you often wonder what went wrong in that last job interview? Were you 10 minutes late or did you forget to take the required documents with you? What was it that cost you that job? Getting an interview call for a job you really want is a dream come true, but it is at this point that many candidates falter. The main reason for this could be a lack of preparation for the interview. Prior preparation can help you stand out and give your best at your interview. Here are the steps you need to follow for a smooth interview experience: Read more about your prospective employer: Read more about the company and the role that you are interviewing for. Thoroughly read the job description and research the nature and responsibilities of the role. Speak to a person who is already working in a same or in a similar role for better understanding. Edit your CV to suit the job you are interviewing for: Make sure to prepare your CV to suit the job that you are interviewing for. Highlight key skills that are crucial for the job and also add details of projects you worked on in a similar field. Refresh your memory before your interview so that you can readily answer questions asked from your CV. Maintain a professional social media presence: The first place employers search for candidate information is online. Up your game by maintaining digital profiles (Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn) that are professional and that can work to your advantage. Rehearse for the interview: Take the help of colleagues or friends and conduct a mock interview, this will help you understand how to answer interview questions. You can go through frequently asked interview questions and answers that are readily available online and do this mock interview. This way you get feedback on what you are doing wrong and will have enough time to rectify your mistakes. Start preparing the day before: What will you do if there is no electricity in the morning? You may have to deal with issues like wrinkled clothes, low battery on your mobile phone and more. Avoid these unpleasant situations by prepping your attire the night before and by keeping your phone in full charge. Remember to set your alarm so that you can reach for the interview 10 mins early. Starting early is crucial for handling road situations like traffic. Tick these off your checklist: Make sure you to carry two or more copies of your CV and other documents mentioned by the interviewer. Fill up your petrol tank if you are driving or book your cab in advance. You can also visit the interview location a day before to chart out your journey. Carry your CV/Documents in a document holder. This will help keep your files organised and can help avoid last minute fumbling.
Dress Code For Interview: It is always best to dress formally as this give the impression that you are serious about getting the job. You can always adapt to the company’s dress code once you bag the job. 70% of hiring managers say they have eliminated candidates because they were dressed too fashionably. Switch off distractions: Make sure to switch off or put your phone in silent mode before entering the interview room. There may be 3 to 4 rounds and the interviewers can have many questions to ask you. Some job interviews can last up to an hour. Plan your day accordingly so that you can focus and give your full attention to the interview. Perfect your handshake If offered, start with a firm handshake with a smile and eye contact. A firm handshake indicates strength and confidence. A limp handshake is a sign of nervousness, lack of enthusiasm or insecurity. Make your body language: A few simple things like nodding your head, smiling, and using hand gestures (not too many) will help create engagement during the conversation. Maintain eye contact and a good posture during the interview. Don’t play with your hair or cross your arms across your chest as these are signs of nervousness or defensiveness. With all these in place, you just have to be yourself and give it your best. Keep these tips in mind and ace your interview.