How to Interview

Whether you are a confident extrovert or quiet introvert, interviews are truly a harrowing experience. From the moment you walk in you are being evaluated on everything from your clothing to your hair to the way you are sitting in your chair. There are a few easy steps you can take to make the process a little less painful and give yourself a boost of confidence.

What are you wearing?

Whether you are interviewing for a weekend job at the local McDonald’s or a manager of a large company, first impressions are the most important. Everything from the type of shoes you are wearing to the color of your hair advertises something about you and your personality, two of the things an interviewer is analyzing. No matter what the position, be professional.

Regardless of the company, always dress as if you are interviewing for the most important job, even if you will just be a busboy or hostess. The time you take to present yourself tells a potential employer what to expect from you. Will you go above and beyond all the time or do just the bare minimum? What impression would you like to start your interview with?

Give just enough information

Interviewers ask questions for a reason. Sometimes the reason is as simple as genuinely wanting to know that answer and sometimes they want to know how you communicate ideas and opinions. Think before you answer about why they may be asking that specific question and how might the answer reflect your personality and work ethic.

Always give enough information to answer the question, but leave a little mystery. No employer wants to hear that your are interested in the job just because you need extra money but if you let them know you are at a point in life where you are looking to better yourself, you have answered the question, displayed a desire to learn and opened a second door for questioning and are now on your way to a job.

Easy Step By Step

• Sell yourself by dressing yourself up a little. Spend time on the way you look and what people may understand about you from the way you are dressed. If you want to be seen as an individual, spice it up with accessories. If you are a business, break out that power suit in the back of the closet.
• Sit with your hands in your lap and feet flat on the floor. Such simple body language conveys honesty and interest in the conversation. Keep eye contact direct and open and don’t fidget or play with your hair.
• Say thank you and follow up a few days later. A simple thank you letter also conveys that you appreciate the time given to you, even if you didn’t get the job and will be remembered if something opens up in the future.

Warnings, Advice, and Suggestions

Practice your more generic responses ahead of time so you’re prepared for as many questions as possible before the interview.

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