While the main goal of any job search is to come away with the right job for you, the main goal of a job interview is to make a connection with the interviewer. When you connect with an interviewer, you increase the chance that they will remember liking and trusting you for the job.
Here are a few tips you should consider that will help you to create this connection:
- Remember the types of questions you are most likely to be asked. Just about every job interview you ever face will feature some sort of question along the lines of, “So, tell me about yourself.” This vague question might force a lot of people who are not prepared for it to stumble. If you prepare an extended version of your “elevator story” and are ready for this question, you can make a great impression right off the bat while giving the interviewer a deep insight into who you are and what makes you a great job candidate.
- Ask questions of your own. Remember—not only are you able to ask questions of your own during an interview, but you should ask questions! The questions you ask may have a greater impact than the answers you provide during your interview. Common questions you might consider could include:
- How will performance be measured in this role?
- What are the prospects for advancement or growth in this role?
- What is a typical work day like for this role?
- How would you describe the culture of your organization?
- When do you expect to fill this position?
- Maintain a well-groomed appearance. Wear the appropriate attire (starched and pressed) for your interview, keep your hair neatly trimmed and well-kept, avoid heavy cologne or aftershave and be sure that you shave (for men) that morning. A clean, groomed appearance is key in establishing a great first impression. As for dress code, always dress to the upper end of the scale of the environment. For example, if the corporate culture is business casual, it’s fine to wear a suit. Remember you don’t work there yet. You will never lose points for being over dressed.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be much more likely to come away feeling that your interview was a great success!
