A job interview plays a great role in a rookie professional’s job search period. How you answer questions and carry yourself in front of the interviewer will be carefully evaluated and documented. If your target job or company is popular, you even get the additional pressure of having to outshine all the other equally competent candidates. Thus you should learn to fend off nervousness and outsmart others.
Don’t get us wrong. It is perfectly okay to be nervous. However, the technique lies in not letting it show and in not letting it rule over you. The most basic way to avoid unnecessary nervousness is to do your research. Re-evaluate your job application and company background. Therein lies the most expected interview questions.
Next up: composure. Do not assume that the interview starts when the interviewer initiates the conversation. The interview begins as soon as you enter the room, the moment you lay your eyes on each other. Carry yourself well. Stand straight, give a quick and firm handshake (with eye contact) and smile. This way, you will appear confident and relaxed. When you are asked to sit down, occupy only half of the chair. This is done so you don’t look too laid back but at the same time you also look attentive because this position forces you to sit straight.
Now here’s the clincher. In the tennis-like manner of throwing both questions and answers, remember to always understand the question before you say your answer. Sometimes, we are very eager to show off our achievements that even if it is not relevant, we try to powder it in the middle of our answers. Your interviewer will only find this gibberish and you’ll even come off as a braggart or simply someone with low comprehension. Sure it’s nice to show them that you’re a good catch but that does not necessarily mean you’re a good catch for the job that they have in mind. There’s a major difference between the two statements. The important thing is you let them realize that you are exactly what they need to do the job that they require.
Lastly, treat the interview like a regular conversation. Sure, you might be dying to just get the job but at the end of the day, you are still talking to a prospect boss or colleague. It is the best time to establish camaraderie. Now don’t make the mistake of bringing up personal topics such as family or favorite sports. It is recommended that you ask questions relevant to the company or responsibilities of the position. You can even ask relevant questions about the company. Show them your interest in the company and position, and your enthusiasm to prepare for the role.
Whether or not you are confident with your answers, end the interview gracefully. Retain the firm handshake, smile and remind your interviewer that you will be looking forward to their correspondence with you.
Read CareerFact’s reliable guide on how to create a positive impression during your job interview. It contains tips on giving effective answers and utilizing nonverbal messages to reinforce your ideas.
