On the Job Hunt? Make Your Interview a Success!

Changing jobs can be a daunting task, filled with anxiety about your qualifications, experience, and questions on how you will fit within a company. The interview is the most important part of the hiring process, as it gives both you and the employer a chance to see how things may turn out in the long run. The employer may ask a series of personality questions, ask you to describe how you have handled a specific situation in the past, or question what you know about the company or position. The key to a successful interview is a mix of how you present yourself, your level of self-confidence, your ability to communicate your expectations appropriately, and listening. Here are some key tips and techniques to make your next interview a success!

1. Learn about the company beforehand 

Make an extra effort to read press releases, company information, recent news, or other information regarding the potential employer. Use the internet to seek out information, and stay abreast of current trends. This will not only familiarize you with the industry, it will also show your take-charge attitude when you are able to talk about the company with the interviewer.
2. Dress for success 

Looking and dressing your best cannot be more important than at the job interview.   Be sure all clothing is pressed, your shoes are clean, and your hair and general appearance are polished and professional. Although the environment may be casual, you won’t lose points for dressing up in the initial stages of your meetings with the potential employer.  You want to use this time to make the best impression possible.

3. Be on time! 
Nothing makes you lose more points than not showing up on time, or early. Schedule yourself to arrive at least 10-15 minutes earlier than your designated appointment and take some time in the waiting area to gather your thoughts. The extra time also ensures that you will find the building, room, or office and arrive on time if you get lost! 

4. Deliver a firm handshake and make good eye contact