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Tips To Face Interviews
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It is important to appear confident and cool for the
interview. One way to do that is to be prepared to the best of your
ability. There is no way to predict what an interview holds, but by
following these important rules you will feel less anxious and will be
ready to positively present yourself.
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Appearances Count
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Before the interview, select your outfit. Depending on the
industry and position, get out your best clothes and check them over for
spots and wrinkles. Even if the company has a casual environment, you don't
want to look like you slept in your clothes. Above all, dress for
confidence. If you feel good, others will respond to you accordingly. Your
clothes and accessories should be conservative and neutral rather than wild
and loud. Your clothes are your packaging and should not take attention
away from the product.
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Be on Time
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Never, and we mean NEVER arrive late for an interview. Allow
extra time to arrive early in the vicinity, allowing for factors like
getting lost and traffic. Enter the building 10 to 15 minutes before the
interview.
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Do Your Homework
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Find out a little bit about the company before the interview
and learn as much as possible about its services, products, customers and
competition. This will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the
company's needs. The more you know about the company and what it stands
for, the better chance you have of selling yourself. You also should find
out about the company's culture to gain insight into your potential
happiness on the job.
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Be Prepared
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Always carry a folder with extra copies of your CV,
Photographs, Degrees, etc and also a paper to take notes. You should also
have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview.
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Nonverbal communication
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These sometimes convey stronger messages
than words:
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Stand and sit erect.
We're not talking ramrod posture, but show some energy and enthusiasm. A
slouching posture looks tired and uncaring. When you stand, make yourself as
tall as possible: shoulders back and head held high.
- Eye Contact
Look the interviewer in the eye. You don't want to stare at them like
you're trying to look into their soul, but be sure to make sure your
eyes meet frequently. Avoid constantly looking around the room while
you are talking, because that can convey nervousness or a lack of
confidence with what is being discussed.
- The Handshake
It's your first encounter with the interviewer. If they holds out
their hand and receive a limp, damp hand in return -- not a very good
beginning. Your handshake should be firm -- not bone-crushing -- and
your hand should be dry and warm.
- Your Hands
Gesturing or talking with your hands is very natural, but keep it in
moderation. Getting carried away with hand gestures can be
distracting. Also, avoid touching your mouth while talking.
- Don't Fidget
There is nothing worse than people playing with their hair, clicking
pen tops, tapping feet or unconsciously touching parts of the body.
And don't underestimate the value of a smile. In addition to the
enthusiasm it expresses to the interviewer, smiling often makes you
feel better about yourself.
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Listen
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One of the most neglected interviewing skills is listening.
Make sure you are not only listening, but also reading between the lines.
Sometimes what is not said is just as important as what is said. Answer the
Question Asked Candidates often don't think about whether or not they
actually are answering the questions asked by their interviewers. Make sure
you understand what is being asked, and get further clarification if you
are unsure.
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Give Specific Examples
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One specific example of your background is worth 50 vague
stories. Prepare your stories before the interview. Give examples that highlight
your successes and uniqueness. Your past behaviour can indicate your future
performance.
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Ask Questions
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Many interviewees don't ask questions and miss the opportunity
to find out valuable information. Your questions indicate your interest in
the company or job
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Follow Up
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Whether it's through email or regular mail, the follow-up is
one more chance to remind the interviewer of all the valuable traits you
bring to the job and company. You don't want to miss this last chance to market
yourself.
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