One of the most frightening parts in applying for a job is the interview. This is especially so for fresh graduates or those who actually haven’t tried in looking for a job. Given that there are hundreds of applicants for a few coveted job openings, the competition is surely tough. There are these fears of stuttering, tripping yourself while you walk towards the interviewer, and not being able to answer the easiest and common questions. Before you head out to your interview, here are some hacks that you need to know.
Don’t set up your interview schedule with strong candidates
Assuming you are applying together with your friends or peers that have better qualifications than you do, it is better to set up your interview on a different date. This way, you won’t be compared to them. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you aren’t as good as they are but you surely have higher chances especially if you can showcase your wit without being compared to.
Make sure to match your style to your image
You need to dress appropriately to impress. Of course this isn’t the heart and soul of the interview but your image matters. The way you dress can give a good impression to the interviewers that you are confident and can perform well in the job.
Modify your style to your interviewer
You need to tailor-fit or modify your answers depending on your interviewer. For example, if your interviewer seems to joke around, then you can exchange jokes when you have a chance. However, if the interviewer is very formal, you need to be formal as well. This has something to do with the age as well; millennial tends to be more focused on creativity and the ability to multi-task, so focus your answers on that. If the interviewer is a baby boomer, you need to emphasize on the ability to work with a team.
Find common likes and interests
The best way to connect with your interviewer is to find common interests and likes. Observe your surroundings especially if you are being interviewed in his or her office. For example, you see pictures of him playing golf and you love gold as well; try to praise him without being too obvious about it. When you share the same interests, chances are, you will be more favored because he will remember you.
Be enthusiastic
Who wouldn’t want someone who is enthusiastic to work for them? Show your interests about the company. So before going there, do a research about the company. This way, your interviewer will know that you are really interested to work for them. This becomes handy as well especially if you will be asked questions of what you know about the company.
Be honest
If there are things that you do not know, be honest. Do not pretend to be know-it-all because this will backfire to you, sooner or later. Hard-selling yourself by saying that you have specific skills which you really don’t have will have negative effects in the long run.
Brief and concise answers
Less talk, less mistakes. If you think you have answered the questions that are being asked, you can stop there. Unless there is a need for you to elaborate, you can do so but if not, it may be wise to just keep quiet.
Use these simple hacks when looking for a job. Again, practice makes perfect. Ask someone who can help you with mock interviews so you can better prepare yourself for the actual thing.
