There are a few key things you should do during a job interview to make a good impact and increase your chances of getting the job. Here are ten things that are important to do during an interview:
- Be Punctual:
Get to the job on time or a few minutes early. Being on time shows that you are responsible and value the interviewer’s time. Plan your route ahead of time, take into account traffic or public transportation delays, and try to get to the interview site with enough time to calm down before it starts.
- Dress Appropriately:
Dress well and properly for the interview. Your clothes should match the company’s dress code and the responsibilities of your job. Choose clothes that are conservative and fit well to show that you respect the chance and understand professional standards.
- Greet with confidence:
When you meet the employer, give a strong handshake and keep eye contact. Be friendly and sure of yourself as you greet them. Remember to smile and show that you’re excited. Your first image is very important, so make a good start to the interview.
- Actively Listen:
During the interview, pay close attention to what the speaker says and asks. Watch how they move and what they say. By actively listening, you show that you care and value the other person. Before you answer, give yourself a few short breaks to make sure you fully understand the question.
- Communicate Clearly:
During the conversation, speak clearly and with confidence. Make your ideas clear and don’t use too much jargon or scientific language that the reviewer might not understand. Be clear and to the point, but give enough information to back up what you say. Keep your tone upbeat and interesting throughout the talk.
- Show Enthusiasm:
Talk about how excited you are about the company, the job, and the chance. Show what you like about the company and why you want to work there. Showing excitement shows that you are motivated and dedicated.
- Provide Specific Examples:
To back up your answers, give specific examples from your own life. When talking about your skills, abilities, or accomplishments, give examples of how you have successfully used those things. This helps the interviewer see what you can do and decide if you are right for the job.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions:
Make a list of questions you want to ask the candidate that are thought-provoking. This shows that you want the job and are paying attention during the interview. Ask about the company’s culture, how the team works, chances for growth, or specific projects to show your interest and get the information you need to make a good choice.
- Show Professional Body Language:
Throughout the interview, keep your body language professional. Keep good eye contact, sit up straight, and lean slightly forward. Don’t move or cross your arms because that could mean you’re worried or not interested. Your body language can say a lot about how the person sees you, so be aware of what you do with your body.
- Express Gratitude:
At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for taking the time to talk to you. Restate your interest in the job and how excited you are about the possibility of getting it. Ask about the next steps in the hiring process and how long it will take to make a choice.
Bonus Tip: Send a thank-you note. After the interview, send the interviewer(s) a customized thank-you note within 24–48 hours. Thank them for their time, reaffirm your interest in the job, and bring up specific things they said in the interview that stuck with you. This action shows how skilled you are and supports your bid.
By using these tips during an interview, you can show the interviewer the best side of yourself, show off your skills, and make a good impression that will last. To increase your chances of success, remember to plan ahead, stay calm and sure of yourself, and have a useful talk.