Have you been called for an interview? Are you excited and nervous at the same time? It is normal to feel that way. An interview can be nerve-wrecking because you have to answer questions and your answers determine if you get hired or not.
To make you feel less nervous, we have compiled a list of things you can do to make an impression at the interview. These tips will help you make a good first impression and increase your chances of getting employed.
- Dress code
- Punctuality
- Good Conduct
- Confidence
- Interest
- Answers
Dress Code
One of the things that interviewers look at is how you dress for the interview. Your clothing reveals a lot about your character. You want to wear something that shows that you are professional, confident and brave.
The first thing is to choose clothes that cover-up. This means that if you are a female, you can go for :
- A pencil skirt that reaches your knees
- A blouse that covers your chest area
- A blazer to make them look more professional
- A pair of heels
When you dress up, look for colours that are neutral. Avoid colours that are too bright. Choose colours such as grey, brown, white and black.
If you are a male, you can go for a dress code that includes:
- Formal pants
- A shirt button and covering the chest area
- A blazer
- A pair of formal shoes
If you want to add a tie to your look, you can do so. This will make you look more refined.
Punctuality
Make sure that you arrive at the interview on time. Being punctual shows the interviewer that you respect their time. This also proves to the employer that you will be able to arrive on time to work if they hire you.
Arrive at least one (1) hour before the interview. This will help you have more time to prepare. You can go to the restroom while you still have time, and also make sure that your phone is off so that it does not interrupt the interview.
Good Conduct
To make a good impression, knock on the door before you enter. Wait for the interviewer to invite you in. When you enter the room, walk up to them and say “hello”. Give them a firm handshake and then ask if you can sit down. This will show the interviewer you have good manners.
Having good manners increases your chances of getting employed. Employers are looking for candidates that can work well with them, respectfully.
Confidence
When you enter the interview room, you must show confidence. As nervous as you may be, try to be confident in your body posture and speech. When you communicate, use an audible voice.
Your confidence can draw the attention of the interviewer. This will make them feel interested in speaking with you because you sound sure of what you are saying. This increases your chances of getting employed.
Interest
When the interviewer asks you questions, make sure that you look interested. This means that you must have positive body language and answer what they are asking with detailed answers.
Sit up straight and maintain eye contact, this will show the interviewer that you are interested in what they are saying. Answering in detail also shows that you are interested in the interview.
Answers
This is the most important part. How you answer your questions will reveal to the interviewer the kind of person you are and how you view life. Make sure that you answer all questions relevantly.
If you do not understand the questions, tell the interviewer. They will rephrase the question in a way that you understand. Remember to stay truthful. The interviewer wants to hire someone who is true to who they are. So, be yourself.
Why Is An Interview Important?
An interview is important because it gives an introduction to people. The employer gets to see the type of person they want to hire. The interviewee also gets a chance to meet the employers and see if the company is the kind of workspace for them.
Interviews are important because they show the type of person the employer is hiring. Some people are not truthful in their Curriculum Vitae. An interview helps the interviewer see if you are who you say you are.
What Are 5 Ways To Prepare For An Interview?
These are the five things you can do to prepare for an interview:
- Familiarise yourself with the questions
- Get your clothing ready
- Practise speaking in an audible voice
- Learn what to do and what not to do in an interview room
- Ask someone to judge you the way an interviewer would
What Are The Top 10 Questions Asked In An Interview?
These are the top ten (10) questions you get asked in an interview:
- Tell us about yourself
- Where did you hear about us?
- What did you do in your previous job?
- How do you handle pressure when working?
- Tell us about a difficult work situation and how you overcame it?
- What is your greatest strength?
- What are you passionate about?
- Why did you leave your previous employment?
- Why should we hire you?
- What is your salary expectation?
What To Do And What Not Do At An Interview
This is what you should do at an interview:
- Dress professionally
- Arrive early
- Keep your phone off
- Greet
- Sit up straight
- Answer in an audible voice
- Answer truthfully
- Make eye contact
- Look interested
This is what you should not do at an interview:
- Do not eat
- Do not smoke
- Do not use your cellphone
- Do not slouch
- Do not speak over the interviewer
- Do not be late
What Should I Bring To An Interview?
When you go for an interview, you should take your Curriculum Vitae (CV) with you. The interviewer may be in a hurry and not have your CV in a hard copy. Make it easy for them and bring copies of your CV. This will also show how prepared you are.
What To Say To Get A Job?
An interview is a chance for you to sell yourself to the interviewer. The interviewer is interested in knowing what you have to offer. Speak about your strengths. Tell them what you do best in the work environment and make them believe they should hire you for the position.
How Do You Start An Interview?
You start an interview by greeting. You can say, “Hi, I am so honoured to be here. Thank you for this opportunity”. This instantly lets the interviewer know that you understand the importance of this interview and take the company seriously.
How Do You End An Interview?
You can end an interview by telling the interviewer that you are grateful for the time they gave you and that you would like to hear from them soon. Stand up and give them a firm handshake. Smile and leave the room.
Author: Mulisa Nethononda
Editor: Razeen Dollie
Date: June 23, 2022