The next step after writing a CV is preparing for an interview with a potential employer. So, before an interview it would be a good idea to pay attention to the following moments:
1. Clearly define the goal. Namely, what you want to do, what job you are looking for, what is really important to you, and what is less important. Be sure, interviewers will definitely ask you about your expectations about the salary, so determine it for yourself.
2. Enjoy the process. Meet new people and companies, communicate, ask and answer questions that are essential for you. Don’t hope to be offered the “best job in the world” after the very first interview. But you will gain meaningful experience. Even those who are not going to change their job are advised to go to interviews, simply to keep themselves in a good shape.
3. Collect information. Before an interview, try to learn something about the company which invited you to a meeting. HR is pleased, as well as you have an advantage.
4. Think about questions to the employer in advance. The questions should be serious to show your interest in the corporate culture of the company. You can also specify job duties, working conditions, social package and so on. It’s not only about the company that chooses you – you are also choosing, so you can ask for information.
5. Check your watch, as being late is bad at all, not only when we are talking about an interview. You can come a little earlier and use the time to your advantage by taking a closer look at the office, the employees and getting acquainted with the company culture.
6. Pay attention to your clothes as everyone greets you by clothes. No one in a new environment yet knows what kind of professional you are, so it is too early to say people that you should be accepted just as you are. Therefore, do not try to impress with your appearance. Dress neutrally. For example, business casual is quite suitable for most offices. And you will still have time to show yourself.
7. “Good or nothing.” Do not say mean words about your previous bosses, companies, co-workers and responsibilities, as it is considered bad manners. In addition, your interlocutor can project your words onto themselves and their company, but no one wants others to talk badly about him or her.
8. Do not press pity. Don’t try to move your interlocutor to pity with stories about how you need this job or how unfortunate you are. Firstly, no one is really interested in this. And secondly, people prefer to deal with positive personalities.
9. Be as open, sincere and natural as possible. Don’t try to play and adjust. You are dealing with people for whom communication with candidates is a daily job. They are able to know the truth about you without you even noticing it.
Good luck!