Job interview details vary widely from one industry to another and one job candidate to another. That makes it difficult to offer opinions or observations that relate directly to the specifics of your particular job interview. HOWEVER… there are some basic, baseline rules that, if followed during a job interview, will enrich your results, because how you exercise these job interview techniques will ultimately determine the result of your job interview.
There are three primary activities that influence the results of a job interview. Those are:
1 – written or verbal communications
2 – body language
3 – questions you ask them
Written or Verbal Communications
Whether presenting your resume, a cover letter, a professional reference, or when using your voice to present critical data about your skill levels and experiences – if what you say or write is disorganized, or poorly stated, you may as well have gone fishing. And when you speak, you need to make good sense, your comments should be topic focused, don’t be too shy or soft-spoken, and keep good eye contact – and listen to what they say to you, don’t just talk. If you use inappropriate language or too much street jargon, or slang, don’t expect to get the job. And sometimes, saying too much about your background is as bad as not saying enough. Understand that your written and verbal offerings should be coordinated, one supporting the other.
Body Language
From the moment you enter the job interview area your physical presence begins to influence the end result of your job interview. If you dressed sloppy or too casual, you will immediately stand out as being self-indulgent. If you dressed appropriately, in a dress suit, you will seem sharp, organized, controlled. A firm, friendly hand shake reassures others.
A limp handshake is noticeable. Leaving the person on the other end of the handshake less than assured about your confidence and drive. Your overall posture should be erect, attentive, make good eye contact with all participants, and soften the event by expressing a pleasant smile. Otherwise, if your posture is weak, your body will slump, your shoulders will slope. You will give the impression that you are fatigue or lazy or disinterest. Don’t send that message, sit up straight, but comfortable, keep your neck and shoulders erect, focused. Let your body express what you have to offer.
Questions You Ask Them
There will come a time in most every job interviews when the interviewer asks you the applicant. If you have any questions. The questions you ask at this point should illustrate to the interviewer your grasp of their needs. Relative to the job and clearly show your interest in the job. Engage the interviewer as much as they engage you. Don’t dominate the interview. During the interview, gather data from the conversation that will help you create the questions you will ask later. Or create a list of key questions before the job interview. Your questions will show your interest in the job. They will also help you gather the information you need to determine the value of the job relative to your goals.
A job interview can be a tough assignment. The better prepared you are, verbally and in written word. The better your chances of impressing the hiring authority with the value of your skills and experience. Re-read the above paragraphs. Be aware of the heavy influence that these 3 key areas of the job interview will have upon your job interviews.