Getting a job nowadays has become a tough task. With more job hunters, the competition in the market has become fiercer despite the number of jobs increasing as well. Looking at the current market scenario, you must step up your game or else you can’t face up to the competition. The job interview is the first hurdle to overcome, and you could gain the upper hand by following five basic interviewing rules.
It’s okay to be nervous for an interview, especially if you’re a first-timer. Read on and give yourself a boost of confidence that you’ll surely need for that big day.
1. Research is key
When you plan a vacation, you follow a simple rule of thumb, which is knowing where your destination is located before planning anything else. This same rule also applies to job interviews. The first of the five interviewing rules is that you should research the company first before appearing for an interview. This will help you learn how the company works, what services they offer, and how they treat their employees. Your chances of acing an interview will get better the more you research. By preparing in this way, you could also be making yourself confident enough to avoid any nervous blunders on the day of the interview.
2. Be aware of how you look
Dressing is one critical aspect of going to interviews, yet it is often overlooked. People say that the first impression is usually the last impression, so make sure you get it right the first time. This is why the second interviewing rule is to dress smart and look sharp. There’s really no better time to get out your most impressive clothes than for an interview. Make sure that your clothes are also free of wrinkles, tears, and stains. What you should wear to a job interview would depend on the type of company you’re applying for as well as your desired position. It’s a good idea to give this some serious thought as well.
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3. Be prepared for everything
An interview is one of those events where anything can happen, which is why the third interviewing rule is to be prepared for everything. For instance, you may not correctly anticipate the number of interviewers. So, you should keep extra copies of your resume in a folder and carry it with you. Additionally, by the end your interviewer may ask you if you have any questions, which is why you must prepare. If you have doubts about working for their company, it’s better to ask them post-interview instead of when you’re already an employee.
Simulate your next interview
Prepare for the questions that are really going to be asked in your next interview.
4. Be punctual
Here’s the fourth interviewing rule – be punctual wherever you go. A person is often judged by how prepared they are. Arriving late for an interview will be a direct threat to your image, which is why it’s best to avoid it if you can. You can guarantee your punctuality by making sure you get enough sleep the night before, especially if your interview is scheduled at an early time. Second, try to wake up early to give yourself enough time to prepare. Finally, get to know the location of your interview and figure out early on how you’re going to get there. Even if you arrive early, it’s better than being late, and it just means you have more time to mentally get yourself ready.
5. Be enthusiastic and listen carefully
Whatever you do, if you do it with all your heart and maximum enthusiasm, the chances of you achieving your goal doubles. That is why appearing for an interview with utmost enthusiasm can make you feel prepared to take on any question. Right off the bat, make sure you give a firm handshake and make strong eye contact. Speak fluently and modulate your voice. More than that, you should listen carefully to ensure that you’re giving the right answers. In case you have trouble hearing or understanding the question, don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat it. There’s no need to rush.
The Bottom Line
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According to Glassdoor, every corporate job attracts 250 applicants on average. Gain an edge over these other applicants by learning from previous interviewees.
A great job interview can be the thing that sets you apart from someone with the same qualifications and level of experience. Once again, make sure you’re prepared by researching the company and thinking about what you’ll be wearing on that day. Try to make a good first impression by being punctual, enthusiastic, and attentive. Your future self will surely thank you for following these simple interviewing rules.
