Perform to succeed

                          
Tips to ace your next job interview

Job interviews are like first dates. First impressions are crucial, awkwardness abounds, and outcomes can be unpredictable. Most of the candidates are confused about what the interviewers may actually be looking for during the interview process and this undermines their confidence in a major way. A job interview is not only a test of your knowledge, but also about your ability to use it at the right time and say it in the right way.  Here are a few tips that will make you “perform” to succeed: 

Anyone can look good on paper

On paper, everyone claims to have the similar job skills and outstanding experience. If, on paper, two candidates each have a post-graduate degree, vast experience in the field, and are a good fit for the company, who does the company choose? Only an interview can help the company decide. As with all first impressions, an interviewer can make an assessment of your character within seconds. During the first meeting, you should be well-prepared, express in-depth knowledge about the position, show enthusiasm toward the company, and be able to outline the unique vision of what you can offer the company in the long term.

No loopholes

Going on a first interview unprepared and unplanned can make you appear as if you don’t care. Interviewers expect you to plan ahead, to know your skills and character, and to be clear about what you bring to the table, ultimately showing why you are a better candidate than your competition. Know your focus or get beaten by competitors who know theirs.

Practice, practice, practice!

Practice makes the man perfect, and it makes sense that you should do the same when preparing for an interview. Practice can help you relax and appear more confident, even when you’re not. Going for interviews just for practice can help you get back into the ‘interview scene’ and better prepare you for the next one.

Stay on the message

Be yourself, be clear, and be memorable. Prove you are the right candidate by weaving your story to fit the company’s needs. Tell them more about your work ethics and what you are like at work every day through your past experiences. Make the employer want you to be a part of their own story.

Be enthusiastic

Sell yourself. Bring a smile, knowledge of your field, and passion. Show you’re the one who can get it done best compared to the rest.

Don’t make it all about you

Employers want to know that you’re interested in the role and company and not just your career. Ask appropriate follow-up questions to show you’ve thought about the employer’s needs and concerns.

Show some restraint

Don’t speak negatively about your last employer. Save that for a later time.

Close with a bang!

If you’re interested in the job,  let them know you’re enthusiastic about the opportunity and eager to work for them. Interviewers will remember this after you go and it will leave a lasting impression.

Talent will get you in the door, but character keeps you in the room.
Source: http://www.tribuneindia.com/