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Author: Tina Pestalozzi

Whether you are facing your first job interview or have a couple behind you, here are a few pointers to help you navigate the interview process.

Plan ahead for the interview – to arrive a few minutes early with a couple of black or blue ink pens and to be prepared for basic questions you might be asked. Although there are hundreds of possible questions an interviewer may throw out to you, what they are most likely trying to find out is how dependable you are, if you’re a hard worker, if you are easy to get along with, and what kind of skills, if any, you can bring to the job. Keep those things in mind as you frame your answers to the questions you are asked. Think ahead how you would answer the questions “Tell me about yourself” or “What are your greatest strengths?”

Once you are fortunate enough to get an interview, remember only a true emergency should keep you from showing up at the scheduled appointment on time. Excuses like, “I couldn’t make it because the friend who was going to give me a ride was waiting for her brother to get back from…. etc.” will help a potential employer decide you are not the candidate for the job. Sometimes you may be asked to call or return several times before you are told whether or not you have the job. Don’t give up, and be sure you follow up, since this may be a test to see how dependable you are and how well you follow instructions.

During your interview remember attitude is everything. It’s why an employer may hire you instead of someone who is just as smart or just as qualified. The proper attitude shows that you are positive and eager to please. It’s caring enough not only to be on time, but to arrive several minutes early. It’s wanting the job bad enough to make a good impression. Your clothes should be clean, pressed and appropriate. Men, now is the time to tuck in your shirt and put on a tie. Women, dress conservatively. Forget about wearing tank tops or shorts. Every part of you needs to be clean and look well-groomed and well put together. You are projecting how you feel about yourself by the way you dress and present yourself.

• Watch your posture. It might be a bit hard to appear relaxed yet energetic and eager at the same time, but you can do it. Greet your interviewer properly – which means with a smile, a greeting (such as “thank you for seeing me”), a correct handshake, and direct eye contact. Make sure you introduce yourself by using both your first and last names.

• Maintain good direct eye contact during your interview. This indicates you are focused and interested. Do not stare; just appear to be listening and friendly.

• Sit when you are instructed to do so. Don’t slump, fidget, play with your hands, cross your legs, or tap your feet. Just sit up straight in the chair with both feet flat on the floor.

• Be mindful not to interrupt.

• Answer all questions completely and honestly. Don’t say you have experience when you do not. Don’t say you know how to do something if you know you don’t. Never lie. Answer all questions in complete sentences, which will help to keep you from appearing indifferent.

• Try to emphasize your dependability and your willingness to work hard.

• Show interest! Ask questions, such as “What would my duties be during a typical workday?” or “What is most important to do well in this job?”

• Discuss your strengths, skills and accomplishments, not how much money you want. Let the interviewer bring up salary, even if it’s approached in a subsequent interview.

When the interview is over, make sure you smile, shake hands again and say thank you. Immediately after the interview write and mail a short well-written letter, thanking the interviewer for the time given you, and restating your interest in the position. This is an additional opportunity to impress the interviewer and to project the positive attitude employers are looking for.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interviews-articles/life-skills-101-first-timers-job-interview-success-869432.html

Author: Damen Choy - the Career Expert

Despite all the advances in technology and communications these days, the traditional rules still hold when it comes to interview techniques that will get you hired. Whether you’re applying to a global corporation or a small company, the most important part of an interview is that you have a winning presentation. This is usually the key factor in determining whether you get the job.

Once you have created an effective resume and have sent your resume to prospective employers, the next step is to try and obtain an interview. This can be done by phone or in person. Chances are you will first meet an administrative assistant or receptionist. This person could be the key to your future in terms of helping you to get an interview or providing information about the company, so remember to be polite and friendly.

Once an interview is scheduled, your personal appearance and behavior are critical factors which could decide whether your job search is successful.

Here are 7 important steps to help you improve your interview techniques.

Interview Techniques #1 — Proper Preparation

To make sure you’re on time for the interview, find out ahead of time where the interview is and how to get there. Give yourself plenty of time to get dressed and get there on time. As a matter of courtesy, make sure your cell phone is turned off before the interview.

Plan to dress in a manner which is appropriate for the job. Your appearance will determine the first impression the interviewer has of you. Take care in your grooming before the interview, and be aware of your body language during the interview. Good posture will help to give an overall good impression.

Interview Techniques #2 — Do the Research

Use every possible resource to learn about a company before you interview there. You should be prepared to answer question about why you’re interested in the company or what you’ve heard about it. Make sure you know what the company does and if possible a little bit about its history. Be familiar with the company profile.

While it’s a good idea to prepare some answers to questions ahead of time, avoid memorizing your responses. You need to sound unscripted and as natural as possible. Rehearse an overview of what you want to say, but keep it spontaneous.

Interview Techniques #3 — Keep your Cool

When you meet the interviewer, remember to look him or her in the eye and be prepared to return a handshake if offered. A polite greeting and friendly smile are in order. Only take a seat after it’s offered. Thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. Keep your demeanor and comments positive.

Interview Techniques #4 — Sell Yourself

As you’re being interviewed, answer all questions as honestly as possible. Honesty and sincerity are both important interview techniques. Make your answers concise and not unnecessarily wordy. Do your best to convey to the interviewer what type of employee you will be and what you will offer the company. When asked about previous employers, stay as positive as possible.

If this is your first job, don’t be intimidated by your lack of experience. Emphasize your skills and talents, and let the employer know that you are confident and eager to learn.

One of the most important interview techniques is to see through the eyes of the employer. If you were the one doing the hiring, what qualities would you look for? What benefit would the employer gain in hiring you?

Lastly, don’t be afraid to sell yourself, but at the same time avoid the appearance of over confidence. Project an air of confidence without sounding like a know-it-all.

Interview Techniques #5 — Ask the Right Questions

Show the interviewer that you know the right questions to ask. Express an interest in knowing exactly what your responsibilities will be. If you come across an interviewer who does all of the talking, don’t be intimidated. Politely try to ask questions which will give you the chance to discuss your qualifications for the job.

Interview Techniques #6 — The Wrap Up

As the interview comes to a close, make sure that you’ve covered all the important points. This is not the time to ask about salary and benefits. Save those questions for the job offer or follow up interview.

Summarize you strengths and skills and re-emphasize your positive traits. Find out what the next steps are in the interview and job decision process. Thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you and make sure to leave a final good impression.

Interview Techniques #7 — The Follow Up

After the interview, another of the important interview techniques is to follow up with a thank you note to each person who interviewed you. Thank him or her for their time and for giving you the opportunity to apply for a job.

For details on these and other winning techniques, refer to the Interview Techniques section of InstantCareerAdvice.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interviews-articles/7-interview-techniques-that-will-get-you-hired-793223.html