How To Get The Job You Really
Really Want - The Interview - In You Go!
In most cases
you will report to some sort of reception area, and be asked to wait
there. This can present an opportunity. Obviously, be polite to the
receptionist, she will often report back to the interviewer, if not
formally, informally! It can also be an opportunity to get a
little bit of inside track on the organisation. So, if the
receptionist is prepared to chat, it can prove a worthwhile
exercise. A few complimentary words about the company or reception
area always helps your cause.
It is worth remembering that the interview situation
is probably the most false situation you are ever likely to find
yourself in during your life! For example, you have to
construct every sentence carefully, making sure not to say anything
ambiguous, disrespectful, controversial or just plain stupid. This
has to be maintained from start to finish, and it ain't
easy! In fact, it is downright unnatural.
The problem is that, unfortunately, until there is a
better system, we are stuck with interviews. You will know from
past success that once you start your new job, you suddenly revert
back to your normal, natural self! Funnily enough, the interviewer
can often become a normal human being as well. Strange that!
The bottom line though, is, that you cannot really do
anything about this scenario apart from use the advice given here to
turn the situation to one where you have the keys that give you an
advantage over the competition.
Now the time has come, and you get called in to meet
the interviewer. I have covered the greeting of the interviewer in
the CV section, so if you can't remember that far back, go and have
another read, but remember, those first impressions are crucial!
Now, I have already mentioned that you may be a
little nervous. It is equally possible that the interviewer may be
nervous as well. So those key first seconds should aim to put you
both at ease, and the proper introduction as per the section earlier
will help do this. This, in turn, will get the interview off on the
right foot.
You also need to ensure you employ the right body
language, and a quick re-read of that chapter will also help before
attending an interview.
The interview (once you get there) is obviously a
hugely important part of the job-hunting process. Indeed, it is the
only reference point that any prospective employer can take in
assessing your suitability for their opening. Your performance is
therefore crucial. To that end, I have already covered presentation
and body language. Here are a couple of other areas to be aware
of;-
* Speech -
How you speak
is important. I know I mentioned accent earlier, however, here I am
talking in terms of clarity and delivery. You should speak clearly
and precisely. Speak at a slightly slower pace than normal. This
will help understanding as well as give you a little extra thinking
time. Be concise and to the point, and answer coherently. Do
not waffle. You will lose the interviewers interest very
quickly. If you feel you have answered a question sufficiently,
wait for the interviewer to speak again. Do not be tempted to add
to the answer if there is a short silence.
* Surroundings -
The interview
is a two-way thing. It is to determine if the company likes you,
and you like them. So, whilst you should always maintain eye
contact with the interviewer, try to take in the surroundings. Do
you like what you see? Do you get a good feel for the atmosphere?
etc.
Next Page -
The Interview,
How Many?
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