The ABC's of interviews: Part Two
Interest – Showing an interest in the role is important to the interviewer. Showing that you care about the position and whether you get it or not means that you are keener and more enthusiastic about the position.
Jobseeker Agency – Using an agency like ourselves can greatly increase your chances! A consultant will get to know you over time as well as your skillset. We can set up the interviews on your behalf that are more relevant to yourself and potentially not as advertised. Additionally, we can offer any feedback or advice that you may need with constant service. Best of all, it’s free!
Knowledge – More specifically about the position. While there may be positions that would prefer some academic knowledge too, in a lot of interviews this is not a necessity. Showing that you know what you would be doing and what to expect from your position, whether this is from experience or research, will give the interviewer confidence in your ability to fit into the role.
Listen – The interviewer will of course have some very important things to tell you and ask you. It might be good to make evidence of your listening as well through notes on paper. Taking notes shows that you value what the interviewer is saying and that you’re showing interest which we have mentioned the importance of already. Avoid your phone for note-taking as even if you still are making notes on it, it may not appear that way.
Modesty – You may think this contradicts some other points in this list, but no. Charisma and charm are a large part of any in-person interaction and an interview is no exception to that. Making the interviewer like you or at least not bugging them in some way means you will be playing to their rules of engagement. Acting cocky will likely bother the interviewer.
Nonverbal communication – As mentioned prior, presentation is hugely important to any interview, especially in the first five minutes. Nonverbal communication refers to your posture, your body language, your movement, etc. Giving a good handshake, sitting up straight, and maintaining eye contact show that you are interested in what the interviewer is saying.
Optimistic – Being positive about your chances will actually increase your chances of getting the position. Psychologically, humans are generally more inclined to agree with someone – especially if the speaker is nodding or speaking positively about it. So, your inflexions and tone from being optimistic and positive during your interview will actually increase your chances of getting the job as the interviewer is more likely to agree with what you are saying and feel more positive about you. Plus, being optimistic helps with your nerves in the process.
Preparation – It really is key! Having everything ready and set before you go into the interview can really help. Have your clothes ready and ironed on the side before the day of your interview, go to the place of your interview before the day so you know how long it takes and where you are going in case you get lost, give yourself plenty of time on the day to get to your interview to avoid being late.
Qualified – Know your qualifications and those required for the role. Being underqualified can lead to embarrassment but being overqualified means you aren’t getting your full worth from the company. See if there are any positions above or below that you are qualified for and then you will be much more confident and happier in the interview.