Summary: Have you checked the websites we have posted in last lesson? If you have a job interview from one of these websites or some friends, congratulations. Now we are going to talk about interviews, the most stressful part of a job application.
You, sure, can prepare a perfect cover letter and resume to win an interview, but your attitude, appearance and ability during a in-person interview is for certain the decisive factor for you to get a job. Therefore, interview is the most difficult part for a job application.
Today we will go through how to express and behave yourself during an interview to make you stand out and be the number one candidate for the position.
Tips for Face-to-Face Interviews
1. Do Homework
It does make some sense to know the history, mission and vision of the company you are applying for. You don't have to know the specific date when the company was founded or the stuff of the company, but it is nice of you to know the company's reputation or something like. You can check out on internet to learn more about the company, which will impress the employer.
2. Calm Down
There is no need to emphasis the importance of first impression more, so take a cup of tea with your breakfast or take deep breathes before entering the building.
3. Do Practice
There is a list of general questions an employer will ask you. Answer these questions by yourself or practice them with your friend to help you build confidence for the interview. Remember always to turn your weakness to strengths when answer questions. For example, if your friends think that you are compulsively clean, tell your employers that you just can't help but keep everything clean and organized all the time.
4. Smile and Friendly
Smile is VERY important. Smile shows that you are friendly, interested in and engaged. Also, people love you to make them special. Do remember the name of person who is interviewing you. Mention their name, from time to time. Look around in the office to find good topics to narrow down the distance. Let's say, some pictures of pets, you can share something about your pets. This shows that you are interested in the interviewer and then they will perceive that you are interested in the company and people who work here.
5. Eye Contact
Don't wander your eyes when you are in conversation. Focus on the eyes of the interviewer.
6. Always Say Thank You
As an old saying goes, "Courtesy costs nothing", say thank you and shake the interviewer's hand.
Tips for Telephone Interviews
Some company will call you first before an in-person interview. We can say that phone interview is less stressful, because you don't need formal outfit, nobody stares at you to make you nervous and you can read notes when you answer questions. Here's something you should pay attention to when you are having a phone interview:
1. Find a Good Place
Find a silent place and sit down. Stop eating, drinking and anything else to focus on the interview.
2. Make Connection Available and in Good Condition
Make sure your phone works well and the area you are in is with good signal connection.
3. Get Your Resume, Pens Ready
So that you can refer back if necessary and write down something important your potential employer tells you.
4. Smile When Talking Over the Phone, too!
It actually makes you more professional over the phone. Even if your potential employer cannot see you, your happy and rapt voice will help you portray your interest in the company.
