Hey There,

After going through a rigorous process while applying for that job, You finally get mail. You have been invited for a job interview. Your very first reaction is excitement; finally you have gotten this far. For some of you, the excitement wears out and quickly turns into fear, for others they remain in that excitement stage and do not take time out to think through the essentials for their interview day. We are here to save both parties from their extremities.

Here are 10 tips that would carry you through your first interview.

#1: Research (Do Your Homework): Make sure you research on the company before you go for the interview. When you do this, you are more confident, and your approach towards answering questions is different. You would be able to ask more coherent and applicable questions when you are given the opportunity to do so.

#2: Take Out Time To Practice: Prior to your interview day, you should take time out to practice. You could ask a friend to assist you. Find research questions that you could use and might be applicable to the role you are applying for. Although, your interviewer might not ask you any of the questions, you would feel more confident as you have practiced using several other questions.

#3: Dress appropriately: It is often said that you should dress the way you want to be addressed. Do not go over the top, such that you are uncomfortable. Neither should you dress down so much that you do not remotely look the part. You should also read up on the company culture, this is a guide to what appropriate dressing might be to the hiring manager.

#4: Be Punctual: As a candidate, you would give the interviewer a very poor impression about you if you show up late to the interview. To avoid this disaster, make sure you know the exact location the interview is taking place. You should also have a good understanding of the parking lots and bus routes. This saves you time and stress. You definitely do not want to arrive at your interview late and sweaty.

#5: First Impressions Matter: Making a good impression at your interview is very important. This cannot be over emphasized. The interviewer is going to judge you in the first minutes of meeting you. The secret to creating a great first impression is simple. Be yourself, but be the best version of you. Basically, be on your best behavior but do not go out of your way to be somebody that you are not.

#6: Presentation Matters: Present yourself well. This is the next step to take after conquering making a good first impression. Ensure you come across as being well mannered and cultured. Above all, relax and speak clearly. Also maintain eye contact with the interviewer, and smile as appropriate.

#7: Contacts: If you know someone at the company, you can mention to the employer at the appropriate time. The employer could then meet the employee you know to have a clearer picture of who you actually are, what your work ethics are, and your personality.

#8: Body Language: Learn to build a relationship with your interviewer. This way, you are distinguished from the other candidates, and also your interview would be a memorable experience for you and your interviewer. Make sure you smile and have a decent demeanor. Your body should show that you feel relaxed and you are a confident, friendly person.

#9: Your Exit: When your interview is coming to a close, make sure it ends on a good note. Smile and shake the interviewer’s hand. You could also extend short pleasant gestures about the interview. This leaves a last impression that is as good as your first impression.

#10: Follow-Up: After your interview, you could send the interviewer a hand written note saying thank you. You could choose to send a mail to your interviewer in addition to the handwritten note. This would help the interviewer remember your name and face.

Passing an interview is a very critical stage in your job application. With the right preparation and practice, your interview is sure to be a success. These tips would guide you through your first interview and even beyond.

Regards,

PushCV Content Team.