Preparation Tip for Job Interview

How to Prepare for Interview

Congratulations! You’ve been called in for a face-to-face job interview. The better prepared you are beforehand, the better your chances are of walking out of the interview with a confident smile on your face that says, "I think I got the job!"
It’s important to make yourself stand out as someone special. Now is the time to practice exactly how you will sell yourself to a prospective employer during that crucial first meeting.

• Do your homework : Research the company beforehand so that you can showcase that knowledge during the interview. This will boost your credibility with the interviewer and will help you to formulate intelligent questions to ask him or her.
• Look the part : Prior to your interview, prepare answers to common questions the interviewer is likely to ask, such as what are your strengths and weaknesses? Why do you want to work here? Why should we hire you? And the ever popular tell me about yourself. Conduct a mock interview as practice.
• Arrive early : Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview. Visit the restroom and check your appearance in the mirror. Announce yourself to the receptionist to let him or her know that you have arrived and that you have an appointment. Turn your cell phone off.
• Bring necessary documentation : Make a checklist of documents that you will need for the interview, and make sure that you have them in your briefcase before leaving home.
• Sell yourself : The interview is your chance to shine. It should include your strengths, your abilities, and what sets you uniquely apart from other applicants.
• Don’t neglect to ask questions : Based on your earlier research, ask how the responsibilities of the open position relate to the company’s goals and plans for the future. Interviewers are often favorably impressed by candidates who show that they are knowledgeable about the organization.
• Follow up : If you don’t hear anything after one week, politely inquire when they will be making a final decision.

Remember to keep this in mind : Every interview is a valuable learning experience. Even if you don’t get this particular job, when the next interview rolls around, you’ll be much better prepared and more at ease with the whole process.