Job Interview Tips

There may be several schools of thought out there regarding what it takes to land the job, but for all practical purposes, it comes down to three things:

1. A well written cover letter that sells your abilities and skills
2. A powerful resume
3. An excellent interview

Let's assume that your cover letter and resume impressed the prospective employer well enough that they scheduled an appointment with you for an interview. Herein lays the most important step of the process --- conducting a successful interview. You've sold yourself on paper. Now you have to sell yourself in person. Here are 10 job interview tips to help you accomplish that "sales" job.

1. Tailor your experience and skills for the job

   Do it positively, without being aggressive or cocky.

2. Have your research completed before walking into the interview

   Knowing as much as you can about the company you're interviewing with is a very powerful interviewing tool. It tells that employer that you have a genuine interest in the company, not just your own selfish gain.

3. Have your answers to the expected(and unexpected) interview questions

   Anticipate being asked these questions and be prepared to answer them. If you are changing careers or interviewing for a new title in a familiar industry familiarize yourself with what is expected for the job and the company culture. Friends and past employees can be invaluable with helping you prepare; seek them out and employ their help.

4. Always dress for success

   Dress in the attire that is appropriate for the position you are seeking.

5. Draw up a list of questions to ask the interviewer

   if they give you the opportunity to ask them. Have a folder that you take with you on your interviews. You might want to think about having extra copies of your resume in the folder as well.

6. Don't be one of these job seekers that runs off at the mouth

   Be quiet and listen to the interviewer. When they want input from you, they'll ask for it.

7. Know how to convert you weaknesses into strengths

   For instance, if one of your weaknesses is being overly enthusiastic, inform the interviewer that you are overenthusiastic about performing your job to the best of your abilities.

8. Look the interviewer square in the eye

   Interviewers view eye contact as a sign of respect in that they feel you are paying attention to them.

9. Remember to only speak when asked to

   The person conducting the interview isn't in need of your personal opinion, so unless they ask for it, it's best kept to oneself.

10. Be yourself

    Don't put on an act. Definitely try to establish a rapport between you and the interviewer. Be casual and relaxed, but above all, show the interviewer that you are nothing short of professional.

Before going on that interview, run through these steps several times so that you're confident and prepared to face whatever the interviewer throws at you.

Author: Doug Johnson