Sara Masri
Writer @ WiPjobs Recruitment
Seven Interview Tips that will help you get hired
Having a perfect resume and a cover letter is important but it’s not enough! Indeed, it is important that a good CV is followed and supported by a job interview at the same level.
There are several types of candidates at a job interview: some candidates who view the moment of the selection interview as an opportunity to let off steam about how much they do not like their current job, others who are a nervous wreck throughout the whole interview due to the anxiety of having to answer to a recruiter and those who want their 30 minutes of glory and enjoy the stage as a true one-man show!
Unfortunately, all three strategies are wrong and will probably lead to get another “no” or another “we will let you know” that will end up accumulating insecurity and frustration in those who receive it.
So what do we do? No worries, the WiPjobs Team is here to help! Let’s see together 7 valuable tips that you should never forget and that will boost your chances of getting hired!
1. Always keep in mind the Job Description for the job you applied for
Never forget to study attentively the job description for the job you applied for: exclusion is almost a given in a job interview if – as soon as you sit in front of the recruiter – you reply vaguely when asked ‘do you remember for which position you applied for?.’
To many candidates, this question may seem superfluous but it is essential for HR to understand how much you are present at the interview, how many CVs you are sending and how accurate you are! So, at most, re-read the job description you applied for, especially when sending your curriculum massively.
2. Be on time
Make sure to be on time for the interview. And by time we do not mean exactly on time: we mean at least five to ten minutes early. If need be, drive to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.
Take into account the time of your interview so you can adjust for local traffic patterns at that time. Give yourself a few extra minutes to visit the restroom, check your outfit, and calm your nerves.
3. Make sure to gather information about the company you’re applying for
It is never a good sign when a candidate does not know what type of company he/she has applied for and what is the core business of the reality in which he/she is conducting the job interview. Make sure to research the company and show what you know. Obviously, this does not mean knowing every single detail such as the financial statements of the last quarter but it is essential to know at least how the company is set up, what it does, its mission and its vision.
4. Develop a Connection With the Interviewer
In addition to indicating what you know about the company, you should also try to develop a connection with your interviewer. Know the interviewer’s name and use it during the job interview. If you’re not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Listen very carefully during introductions.
If you’re prone to forgetting names, jot it down somewhere discreet, like in small letters at the bottom of your notepad.
Ultimately, building rapport and making a personal connection with your interviewer can up your chances of getting hired. People tend to hire candidates they like and who seems to be a good fit for the company’s culture. Here’s how to get the hiring manager on your side.
5. Ask questions!
Non-interactive candidates do not make a good impression during the interview. Attention though! Being interactive does not mean co-conducting the interview with the recruiter (which is actually counterproductive) but trying as much as possible to make the interviewer understand your interest in the position for which the selection interview is being conducted. Some interesting questions may be such: What are the corporate values? What are the future prospects for the division in which the position is open? What kind of candidate are you looking for to fill that role?
6. Try to stay calm!
I know what you’re thinking… easier said than done! True. But keep in mind that being calm it’s essential for a good job interview. Your body language says as much about you as your answers to the questions. And remember: proper preparation will allow you to exude confidence!
Always remember to maintain eye contact with the interviewer as you answer questions,
Be sure to pay attention to the question so that you don’t forget it and listen to the entire question (using active listening) before you answer, so you know exactly what the interviewer is asking.
7. Follow up after the interview
Always follow up with a thank-you note reiterating your interest in the position. You can also include any details you may have forgotten to mention during your interview.
It’s definitely worth the extra effort. A Robert Half survey reports that 80% of hiring managers said it was helpful or somewhat helpful to receive a thank-you note after an interview!
We are sure than you’re now ready to nail your job interview. Don’t forget to be yourself and most importantly, believe in yourself and your capabilities. You got this!