In a previous blog, we looked at how to prepare for an interview, but it is the interview itself that really matters. When the interview day arrives, you need to ensure that you stand out from all the other candidates. This is easier than you think. Here are a few simple guidelines that will ensure that your interview goes well:

 

1. Practice Good Non-Verbal Communication

 

Demonstrate confidence from the start of the interview. Stand up straight and make eye contact. Greet all the people interviewing you with a smile and a firm (not crushing) handshake. Non verbal impressions are incredibly important and can give a great beginning to your interview.

 

2. Listen

 

Interviewers will give you information during the interview, either directly or non directly, so make sure you listening. An interviewer will want to know that your communication skills include listening, so it is important to let the other them know that you heard what they said. Match the style and pace of the interviewer, if that is possible. This is extremely important when responding to specific questions. You will have done your homework and prepared answers, but make sure that the question being asked matches the answer you have prepared. Listen carefully and answer the question that the interviewer has asked.

 

3. Don’t talk too much

 

It sometimes feels that you have said too little in answering a question, but don’t say too much. Long rambling answers that end up going nowhere are not a good idea. When preparing, you will have thought of specific, precise answers to questions. Give the interviewer only the information they need to answer that specific question and show you know exactly what you are talking about. Match your skills with the position’s requirements and relate only that information.

 

4. Don’t be too Familiar or Overconfident

 

The interview is a professional environment and the interviewer wants to see that you can be professional. Remember, you are not there to be the interviewer’s friend. Take your cue from the interviewer, be energetic and enthusiastic, but remember you are a candidate looking for a job. Make sure you use appropriate, professional language.

 

And remember, you are there to sell yourself, but try to get the balance between confidence and modesty right. Overconfidence can be worse than not highlighting your skills and abilities.

 

5. Ask Questions

 

At the end of the interview, when you are asked, “Do you have any questions for us”, make sure that you have prepared some in advance and ask these, to demonstrate an interest in what goes on in the company. Asking questions also gives you the opportunity to find out if this is the right place for you. The best questions are those that arise from listening carefully to both the questions that have been asked, and the things that the interviewers have said, and then asking for additional information.

 

As your last question, let the interviewers know you’re very interested in the job and ask when they think that they will be getting back to candidates.

 

6. Tell the Truth

 

It may seem obvious, but don’t lie, or be scared to admit that you don’t know something. Express your interest in learning or advancing in an area. If you have begun to look into something, tell them that, or try to ask a good question around the subject. Just don’t lie. No employer expects you to know everything. Admitting you don’t know is better than pretending that you do.

 

Bonus Do’s and the Don’ts

 

• Do dress stylishly and job appropriate.
• Do make eye contact. But don’t overdo it.
• Do take time to consider your answers and respond thoughtfully.
• Do take time for pleasantries.
• Do use job appropriate language and well-placed jargon.
• Do be yourself.
• Do clearly define your reasons for wanting the job.
• Do speak clearly, at a normal conversational pace.
• Do remember that’s it’s ok to be nervous, as long as nerves don’t get the better of you.
• Don’t get flustered if you slip up on a question.
• Don’t speak ill of former co-workers, employers or colleagues.
• Don’t reveal unnecessary personal information.
• Don’t forget to highlight your biggest strengths.
• Don’t tell jokes. They can fall flat.
• Don’t panic. You will do great!

 

Remember, despite what you think, interviewers want you to do well. They are waiting for a great candidate and there’s no reason that shouldn’t be you.