A potential candidate receives a phone call from a hiring company seeking to arrange a first interview appointment. The prospective employee feels exhilaration at the opportunity presented. Thoughts run through his head and all of a sudden, doubts and negativity start to seep through his mind. Counter any negative feelings by walking through possible scenarios and by being thoroughly prepared for the interview.
Cure Interview Anxieties
The feeling of nervousness is perfectly normal prior to meeting a potential employer for a job interview. It is the body’s natural response to a stressful situation. Preparation ahead of time diminishes anxiety and helps prepare the job seeker for the upcoming interview.
Interviewees should run down a list of potential “what if?”questions prior to the interview. Anticipate questions that may be asked and practise in front of the mirror to ensure that answers are delivered with deliberate calmness and confidence.
When asked questions about education background or work history, the prospective employee is encouraged to convey his thoughts in a professional manner and not merely give one-word replies. Showing enthusiasm is essential. After all, employers do not just seek experienced personnel; they keep an eye out for that person who displays enthusiasm for the job.
Research Company, Prepare Paperwork and Questions
Do some research on the company and what it does. For example, a manager of a publishing company might ask the candidate “Does our company have any in-house publications? Can you give me just one example?” It certainly wouldn’t do if the name of a competing magazine was the first thing that came to mind.
Paperwork should be completed in advance. Prepare a concise but detailed resume along with a cover letter, copies of certifications, portfolio or examples of previous work, and be sure that interviewers have copies of these in advance of the interview.
Also prepare a few questions for the interviewer, as this shows genuine interest on the interviewee’s part to learn more about the company and the position applied for. Do not digress about other unrelated topics and stick to the subject at hand.
In most cases, there will be a second, finalising interview appointment where higher-ups in senior management and/or Human Resources may also interview the candidate. Maintaining a professionally calm demeanor throughout the interview process is imperative.
A Polished Demeanor Provides a Professional Image
A well-groomed persona is the perfect complement to a CV that brims with qualifications. Exuding a clean, crisp and professional demeanor will enhance the chances of a candidate topping the company’s list of future employees. If nothing else, a well-pressed choice of ensemble and a clean cut appearance will give the interviewee confidence at the interview.
To conclude, prepare well for the job interview. Ensure that all necessary paperwork is readied and copies are made. Hair and nails should be neatly trimmed, and clothes pressed. The employee-to-be should also put some energy into reading up on the company’s background and its latest collaborations. Keeping a cool head is important to presenting professionalism and confidence at the job interview.
Janice Kou - I have a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communications, majoring in Public Relations. My qualifications in the field of mass communications ...
