Job interviews are stressful. No matter how much experience you have, they can lead to pre-interview jitters and even post-interview exhaustion. However, when you take a few steps, you can make the process a little less nerve-wracking.
Here’s a look at 6 of them:
Be on time or early.
Make sure you have ample time in case of the unexpected – a traffic jam, construction, or an accident. Arriving late sets the tone, and it’s not a positive one. It’s better to be early and wait in your car for a while than to arrive late.
Dress the part.
First impressions matter, and what you’re wearing is what the hiring manager will see right off the bat. Make sure it’s professional. Wear a business suit that’s cleaned and pressed, minimal jewelry, shined shoes, and no perfume or cologne.
Be mindful about body language.
You might feel like a nervous wreck. But don’t show it. Be mindful of your body language. If you tend to twirl your hair or tap your foot, consciously tell yourself to sit still. Also, make eye contact and smile at the hiring manager as you offer a firm handshake. Confidence can go a long way in helping you stand out.
Bring up a common connection.
If you find out you have a mutual connection with the hiring manager, mention it from the start. It can be the same alma mater, hometown, former colleague, or friend. This is a great icebreaker that puts everyone at ease.
Provide short, persuasive answers.
When you’re answering interview questions, don’t ramble on. Give short, persuasive answers. Provide facts and examples wherever you can. And ask your own questions, so you can get a full sense of the job and if it’s a good fit for you.
Make yourself the clear-cut top choice.
Offer as much relevant information as possible to the hiring manager. Make yourself the clear choice for the job. Connect the dots between your past experience and their hiring needs. Be humble yet confident and always talk positively about past employers, colleagues, and bosses.
Need more job interview advice?
Turn to the team at PrideStaff. We’re a leading recruitment firm in Tempe and Phoenix and can help with your resume, interview prep, and landing the right-fit job. Search our jobs now to get started!
