Think of your interview as an achievement! You have attracted
attention of your target. The resume you submitted and
networking techniques you used were successful. Use this opportunity to showcase your relevant strengths and skills. Focus on learning from
experience and moving closer to securing
job you really want.
Interviews should be one of
most enjoyable parts of an effective job search strategy. There is no need to feel pressured by a meeting you have earned. The best way to prepare for an interview is to plan to smile. A smile will make you feel and appear more enthusiastic, confident, and relaxed. Smile as you are preparing for
interview. Smile on your way to
interview. Smile during your interview. Try it. Do you feel more relaxed? Can you feel
tension leaving your shoulder and neck area?
The purpose of an interview is to gather information. Organizations gather information to help them select
right candidate. The interviewer knows, or has a general idea, of
specific qualities that they are looking for in an ideal candidate. When you have an opportunity to ask a question before
interview begins, try to establish their specific requirements by asking: "What kind of qualities and characteristics are you looking for in
person you select for this position?"
If
interviewer provides an answer, keep this information in mind as you answer questions during
interview. Try to match as many of your relevant strengths to
key qualities they used to characterize their ideal candidate throughout your interview. At
end of your meeting,
interviewer should know why you are
right person for this position. The interviewer should be able to identify at least three relevant skills that you have highlighted during
interview.
Prepare to provide direct and positive information. Even if you are interviewing within your own organization,
time you spend preparing for interviews or job evaluations will directly impact
advancement of your career. Draft a closing that highlights your three most relevant skills. Preparing a closing summary in advance will help you feel relaxed during
interview.