For a young person entering the work force for the first time, searching for a job can be complex and confusing. One of the hardest things to do, though, is get through those first few interviews.
Being interviewed can be nerve wracking and stressful if you are unfamiliar with the basics of interviewing, so to help you be better prepared we have put together this collection of interview basics.
Prepare for the interview
What does it mean to prepare for the interview? It means doing some basic research to learn more about the company and its business. Start with their web site and look for information about size, locations, products or services, history, etc. Another good place to look is in the online archives of your local newspaper. Check for current events and issues related to the company and see what, if anything, has been written about them.
Practice and role-play
Take the time to practice and role-play the interview. You likely have a number of people who have the experience and the willingness to help you; all you have to do is ask. Your parents, a teacher, a career counselor, a mentor – all of these people are good candidates to role-play an interview with you.
Dress appropriately
One of the basic mistakes many people make is not dressing appropriately for a job interview. Whether you are interviewing for your first part time or summer job or trying to land that first real job out of college, how you dress is important. Wear clothes that are neat, clean and presentable. If you are interviewing for an office job wear a suit if you have it, or dress clothing. Men, this means slacks, shirt and tie; women, this means slacks, skirt or dress. No shorts, tank tops, revealing or too tight clothing, ripped jeans or the like – save those for after the interview when you are ready to relax.
Arrive early
Another basic mistake is being late or arriving just in time for your interview. That makes a very bad first impression, and gets the interview off to a rough start. Find the location of the interview in advance, and time yourself to see how long it takes to get there. Think about whether you are likely to encounter rush hour traffic, road construction or anything else that will slow you down. Allow enough time to absorb unexpected delays and still arrive early enough to stop in the restroom to freshen up and double check your clothing before going in to the interview.
Bring basic supplies
Basic interview supplies include a notepad, pens or pencils, extra copies of your resume and any other materials you are asked to bring. Come prepared to take notes on what you learn during the interview and pass along a copy of your resume in case the interviewer does not have it or there is more than one interviewer in the room. Ask for a business card from the interviewer(s) and note their name; you will also use the business card after the interview to address a thank you note.
Body language
Did you know that when you communicate with someone else, your body language makes up as much as 75% of what the other person receives? That is why body language is so important during an interview. Sit up straight but do not perch nervously on the edge of the chair. Make steady eye contact with the interviewer and avoid nervous movements like tapping your fingers, bouncing your knee, or constantly shifting in your chair.
Take your time
When the interviewer asks you a question, take your time answering. There is no need to blurt out an answer right away, it is perfectly acceptable to pause for a moment, compose your thoughts and then answer. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace – don’t rush through the words or give a long, involved answer when something shorter would be better.
Follow up
When the interview is over, shake hands with the interviewer, say thank you and depart. Immediately after you get home write a thank you note to the interviewer and put it in the mail. Your note should contain words of appreciation for the interview along with a few words that capture why you think you are a good fit for the position.
