May 25, 2015
Newsletter Article
Once you have secured an interview with a company, you must begin to prepare. Inadequate preparation and lack of attention to detail can have negative effects on your performance in the interview. As an interview is the ideal opportunity to market yourself and your skills, it is important that it runs smoothly. Before entering an interview, consult the following guidelines to ensure you are prepared for the process.
Once you have secured an interview with a company, you must begin to prepare. Inadequate preparation and lack of attention to detail can have negative effects on your performance in the interview. As an interview is the ideal opportunity to market yourself and your skills, it is important that it runs smoothly. Before entering an interview, consult the following guidelines to ensure you are prepared for the process.
- Research; research the company, its products, services, current activities and future ventures. Read newspapers, in particular rural newspapers, to stay abreast of what is happening in the industry and in the company. Also do an internet search on the company and make sure to visit their website.
- Prepare yourself for the standard questions such as ‘tell me about yourself’ and ‘why do you want this job’. Practice answering out loud so you get used to the sound of your voice, practice in front of the mirror or to another person. Also spend a little time matching your skills and qualities to the skills and qualities stated in the job advert.
- Prepare a couple of good questions to ask the interviewer, this will portray your interest and enthusiasm for the job and the sector
- Remember to bring extra copies of you resume to the interview, make sure these are well presented.
- Don’t be late, it is better to arrive early rather then late to an interview
- Dress neatly and appropriately and don’t forget to clean your shoes. Make sure you are well groomed and have fresh breath. These may seem like little things, but they can be the difference in getting the job or not.
- In the interview remember to sit up straight, not to fidget, speak clearly and smile
- At the end of the interview don’t forget to thank the interviewer for their time
These may seem like simple steps but they can aid you in good preparation. The interview process can be daunting, so preparing well can help combat this and help you present yourself in the best possible fashion. Remember, be confident, be prepared and you will come across well in an interview.
