It is that time when you forget all your manners and etiquette. Its that time when you forget to mind your P’s and Q’s. Its that time when the bones in your legs turn to jello and your brain turns to mush.
YES!, Ladies and gentlemen of MS, we are talking about the
dreaded JOB INTERVIEW
A shudder runs through our spine when we think of the impending meeting with top executives of an organization. I have been for several interviews and have been accepted most of the time. There are a few factors here that we must prepare for before we make way to the interview chamber.
CONFIDENCE
This is the title of my review and it is the key to success. Don’t ever let anyone tell you or even suggest to you that you are anything less than the best. There are times when we think we are not worthy of this and that but now is the time to forget all that and go for gold baby! Believe in yourself.
COMPANY PROFILE
A little research on the company will go a long way. We have the ubiquitous internet - a mine of information can be obtained from this source. Know the name/s of the people who are to interview you. Memorize them. Calling them Mr. So and so during the interview will leave a good impression of your keenness.
ATTIRE
Clothes speak volumes of a person. A suit and tie, or a black dress with a nice coat speaks volumes of the character of a person. Remember, the first impression is the lasting impression. So make sure you are not wearing running shoes with your suit! Do ensure that your accessories match, please. Carry a nice handbag and a folder with copies of your resume and photographs and other references should the request be made for them.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Know your job. Find out what the job asks for. If it asks for something you are not knowledgeable about, fear not! Its not rocket science, is it? Be frank and say that you are aware of such and such but are not an expert.
THE INTERVIEW
You are now in the main arena. These are not man-eating lions, these are men/women only after the best interests of their company. Maintain eye contact and avoid fidgeting (its a blatant sign of nervousness). Read your resume. If the interviewer asks you something and you have no answer for it, even though it is there on your resume, it looks bad. Be prepared. Interviewers ask all sorts of questions. Answer them all professionally. If they ask you something personal, especially with reference to your company, let them know that it would be unethical to reveal such information.
CONFIDENCE
This is the first and last point to keep in mind. Psyche yourself into thinking you are the best and maintain that outlook. A positive outlook shows through and builds a good rapport with the interviewer and yourself.
I hope this review of mine comes in handy during those nail-biting moments. I wish all you interviewees a very good luck.
Go get ’em!