Job interviews are a nauseating experience for pretty much everyone, regardless of the job sector, but they don’t necessarily have to be. There are several things you can do, not only to calm your nerves and be more confident in an interview but also to stand out and increase your chances of getting the job.
In the article below, we’ll be looking at some of the best tips to make your job interview shine.
1. Wave your nervousness aside.
The number one enemy of people on a job interview is usually their own fear of failure. That nervousness often outshines even the best CVs. Why? Because the employer sees that you can’t handle stress well, so of course, that makes them less likely to hire you because in any job, you need to be on top of your emotions.
So find a ritual. Some people like arriving early, so that they have time to calm their nerves and acquaint themselves with the space. Or maybe just give yourself a pep talk in the mirror, if that works for you. Regardless of what it is, try to find something to calm your fears, so that you can present the best version of yourself during the interview.
2. Do your research.
A good way to make the interviewer notice you is by doing your research ahead of time about the company, its history, approach etc. This can mean reading up on Wikipedia, as well as checking out their social media game. Employers appreciate a potential employee with initiative and the willingness to learn.
Be careful though, don’t become overbearing with your info, bringing up tidbits about the company every 2 seconds, or you risk getting the opposite effect.
3. Be expressive.
Often, we let out nerves make us talk in monosyllabic answers, which of course, is not something most employers are looking for. Instead of sticking to simple “yes” and “no”s, turn it into a conversation. Tell stories from your past, when appropriate. Most of all, be open because the more open and friendly you seem, the better the impression you make on someone.
You want to know how to stand out during an interview? Then do your best to make them forget it was an interview. Be strong and likable, so that when you leave, the interviewer is left there thinking what a cool person they talked to.
4. Thank them for their time. Twice.
Naturally, you’re going to thank them for their time when you leave the room, but it doesn’t hurt to also send them a thank you message the next day. Don’t go overboard, otherwise you risk sounding a little too keen on getting the job, which will obviously decrease your chances. But a quick, detached “thank you for having me” or “thank you for the opportunity” is a great way to get noticed. Because first of all, it shows you’re bold and that you have good manners - both points in your favor! And second, it makes them think of you again, even if it’s just for 30 seconds while they read the message.
How you present yourself during an interview is everything, so you want to present the best possible version of yourself!