Get a Job, Get a Career
Interviewing Techniques
An accelerated heat beat, sweaty palms, dry mouth. No, these are not the symptoms of a medical illness, but common reactions to a very nerve racking occasion: A Job Interview.
Despite all the negative hype, a job interview is not an event that should trigger a panic attack. In order to avoid such episodes, one must resort back to the ageless cliché, “Be Yourself”. Yes, it is the last thing that jobseekers want to hear, but ultimately the most helpful. This tidbit of advice does come with a major caveat.
The fine print would surely counsel that a jobseeker should allow only positive qualities shine through, while being your self. Although employers are ultimately seeking productivity, they also are in search of social skills and personality traits that will ensure successful integration with the company and its employees.
During the interview, you are essentially acting as a salesperson. It is your job to accentuate your desirable qualities and convey to the potential employer why you are, indeed, the right candidate for the position.
Hiring managers look for potential employees that are not intimidated by the interview process, people who can let their individuality shine through while still keeping a professional image. This is demonstrated by maintaining a relaxed disposition, try to avoid nervous actions. Do not be afraid to laugh, but please avoid corny jokes. Interviewers are often barraged with a surplus of hackneyed humor.
It is also beneficial to ask questions during the interview process. This is a good way to clarify job expectations and reaffirm your seriousness concerning the position.
Be sure to bring any documents that would serve as further illustration of your skills. Examples of previous work or a portfolio is a beneficial tool when it comes to landing a position.
Another good tip would be to bring extra resumes and/or business cards. Resumes inevitably end up lost or misplaced on the day of the interview, having an extra is a great demonstration of your preparedness and a sure-fire way to keep your information fresh in the interviewers’ memory.