A good job application is one that clearly showcases your strengths and potential. You could have all the talent in the world, but the key is in how you present yourself. Step zero is to write a job-winning resume that catches the eye of the recruiter. A stellar resume is how you get your foot in the door, and then it’s the job interview that will really make it all count. Job interviews are an excellent way to demonstrate what you’ve already said in the resume and it also allows your interviewer (and/or your potential employer) to see who you are as a person.
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Job Interviewing Tips and Techniques
An interview can be a life-changing moment that helps you get your dream job. Of course, that’s easier said than done, so you should prepare yourself and perhaps go through some common interview questions. Here’s a list of tips for a successful interview that’ll help you land your desired job with ease!
- Do your research
- Clarify why you want the job
- Prepare a list of job interview questions
- Keep (extra) copies of relevant documents
- Dress appropriately
- Be on time
- Be yourself
- Show your interest in the company
- Be conscious about your body language
- Thank them for the opportunity
Do your research
In order to prepare well for the job interview, you must know about the position and the company you’re applying to. So your first step is to study the job description and the company profile well. Familiarise yourself with its service offerings, its philosophy and vision, and what values it stands for. Browse through the company website and social media handles, look for reviews from the clientele and employees and find out details about what it’s like to work there. This allows you to get clarity on how the company aligns to achieve your career goals. It also means the conversation during your interview will be more fluid, telling the interviewer that you’ve done your homework and are invested in the company’s long-term goals as well as your own.
Clarify why you want the job
Thinking about how your career goals vis a vis the company is more than just a mechanical exercise. Take some time out to really think about why you want the job, how it will impact your career growth, and what contributions you can make to the organization. It is a two-way street, after all — a job is so much more than a paycheck. It’s also about doing something that you find fulfilling. So, find that purpose. Be clear on what this job, should you get it, will mean for you.
When you have this clarity, you will naturally come across as someone who thinks long-term. To an interviewer, you come across as someone who’s determined and proactive about their career.
Prepare a list of job interview questions
Make a list of common job interview questions and prepare answers for each. You can take cues from interviews you’ve given before or look up common questions asked during interviews within your field. These could be basic questions like
- Why do you want this job?
- Where do you see yourself in x years?
- What drew you to this profession?
- What impact do you want to make in this job (and/or your career)?
In addition to this, try making a list of questions that you may be asked in that interview specifically. You can devise these questions based on your existing research of the company and its profile. Alternatively, you can talk to people who’ve worked in that company or (this is even better) people who’ve held your position.
Keep (extra) copies of relevant documents
If it’s an offline interview, take copies of your resume and other relevant documents that your interviewer might have requested. These could be samples of your work, letters of recommendation, contact details of your references, grade sheets, and so on.
It’s likely that the interviewer has already seen your resume or knows a little about you. But on the off chance they haven’t, or have temporarily misplaced your resume, you can just hand over a copy of your own. A fairly minute detail, but one that lets you come across as someone efficient and with a presence of mind!
The same goes for samples and references: have them handy so you can show the interviewer evidence of your work the moment they ask for it.
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Dress appropriately
Your sartorial and style sensibilities say a lot about you. They leave an impression at a first glance, so you want to make a good impression right at the onset. Pick an outfit according to the organization and role you’re interviewing for.
If you’re looking to work for a massive, highly-reputed corporation, you may want to stick with business attire. If you’re interviewing at smaller places that are likely to be less stringent about dress code, you can go for a business casual look. Just to stay on the safe side, pick an outfit with subtle or neutral colors. Avoid wearing attires with flashy patterns or typography.
Pro-tip: Plan your interview outfit in advance, preferably the night before. You don’t want to be scrambling for an outfit when it’s time for you to leave for the interview!
Be on time
This goes without saying: be on time for your interview! Interviewers are busy people and they probably have many interviews lined up throughout the day. If you show up late, not only does it make you seem hasty and unprepared, but it’s also a sign to the interviewer that you don’t value their time. In fact, it’s best that you aim to reach a few minutes before your slot, so you can compose yourself before the interview begins.
When you’re planning for travel, account for traffic and logistical pitfalls you might encounter on the way there. If you’re appearing for an online interview, keep necessary applications open beforehand and arrange for a backup internet connection.
Be yourself
Since the whole purpose of the job interview is to put your best foot forward, it’s not difficult to get carried away and present yourself as someone you’re not. A word of advice: be yourself and be honest. Trust your ability — remember you’re in the interview room because someone in the company is rooting for you and thinks you deserve a spot. You’re there because you’ve earned it. Let that trust ground you and keep you calm.
You are human after all, so don’t hide it! Everyone comes with a unique set of strengths (and weaknesses too), and it’s up to you to make it an arsenal that guides your career.
Show your interest in the company
During the interview, show that you’ve put in the effort to learn about the company’s aims and goals. Tell the interviewer, as and when appropriate, how your career goals align with them. Demonstrate to them that you’re not just there for your own growth, but that you’re also here to make a contribution to the company.
Take this opportunity to understand more about the company and its values by asking pertinent questions to the interviewer. Ask them about processes, work culture, goals, and what career opportunities you can have there. Having an upfront discussion about both the company and your prospects tells the interviewer that you’re keen on learning and growing at the job.
Be conscious about your body language
Body language can make a huge difference in how you present yourself. We’re sure you know the drill, but here’s a quick reminder anyway: sit up straight, make eye contact with the interviewer, and speak up. Provide non-verbal cues (like nodding) to demonstrate you’re listening to them and are actively engaging with what they are saying or asking of you. Consider taking a notebook or pen to take necessary notes about job details.
Thank them for the opportunity
Lastly, don’t forget to thank the interviewer for the opportunity! Aside from politeness, it’s an excellent way to express your gratitude for being considered for the position.
When you reach home, it’s also a good idea to send the recruiter (or your point of contact in the company) a thank you email. You could also add a line asking when you can expect to hear from them about the interview results. A thank you email also sets the stage for you to follow up after a few weeks, in case you haven’t received a response.
We hope these job interview tips help you prepare for the toughest of encounters in a calm and composed way. Believe in yourself, and good luck!
