When applying for a job, the thought of securing an interview can be quite daunting. The idea of having to present yourself, your accomplishments and experiences to a complete stranger in the hope they will offer you a position within their company seems even harder to achieve when you find out how many other applicants there are! But not to worry, here are a few things you may want to consider to put your mind at ease.
Research. Before any interview, plenty of research and planning is always useful. This will not only help prepare yourself for those unexpected questions, but make the company you are applying to aware that you have shown a keen interest in their business and work values. Generally, you should find out background information about the company and the people who will be interviewing you, identify the kind of skill the position requires, plan a set of questions you could ask to avoid awkward silences and research the issues affecting the job sector.
Dress for the part. Often if you feel and look good, a potential employer will notice straight away. Although it is unfair to judge a book by its cover, this is often the case, especially within high end corporate businesses. You only get one chance to make a first impression and if you feel comfortable and look presentable, this will be an instant confidence boost.
Be organised. Start as you mean to go on. Be prepared by taking the essentials to an interview, consider all situations and the kind of equipment that you may require. Some examples of things you may need include:
- A bottle of water.
- A pen.
- A notepad.
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence).
- Any academic certificates and examples of work.
- A copy of your CV.
Body language. Be sure to give off the right body language during an interview. How you present yourself to a potential employer will increase your chances of securing a position within their company. It is always polite and effective to shake the hand of your interviewer both before and after the interview to show that you appreciate the opportunity and their time.
Start slowly. Go at our own pace, not that of others. Everyone has a different way in which they present themselves during an interview and this is something which could set you aside. Try to avoid being the same as every other candidate, it will be refreshing to a potential employer and could secure you the position. Remember, it is not a race to speak or state your opinion, so make sure to take time when conversing to avoid getting tongue-tied.
Ask for what you want. The saying ‘If you do not ask, you do not get’ comes to mind here. Sometimes the best option is to be blunt and open during an interview to get the most out of the experience. Take time to ask your own questions or request any special requirements - being open with your needs or that of the company will work out well in the long run.
Say yes. Don’t be afraid to take a chance. Never be deterred from applying for something because you think you aren’t good enough for the position. The team at ARNL is devoted to suiting people to specific job roles, so even if your skillset doesn’t match one vacancy – it may be perfect for another.
Don’t panic. During an interview it is common to be asked a question that you were not prepared for. In this instance, it’s always easier to switch to panic mode rather than calmly rationalise the situation. However, taking a step back and evaluating all available options will not only help you to remain calm, but will further your confidence when dealing with future compromising circumstances.
Don’t be afraid of the boss. Many employees are under the pretence that the boss or manager of a company is a force not to be reckoned with; however this is not entirely the case. The job role of someone in charge is to oversee the whole workforce and ensure that things are running smoothly – and this includes looking after their staff. Authority figures should support you through your period of employment with the company and so you should never feel hesitant to approach them with any issues or queries.
Take in to consideration all the advice given above and remember that even just getting to the interview stage is an achievement, so do not be disheartened if you do not get offered a position straight away. Each interview should supply you with an experience and help you to gain confidence when applying for more jobs.
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