ARTICLES
"Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four – sharpening the axe."
(Abraham Lincoln)
You need to sharpen your skills, “axe” all doubts and prepare thoroughly before any interview. You also need look good and feel good before you attend an interview. Preparations for an interview can be broadly classified in 3 stages using some simple strategies in each of these stages.
Stage 1 – pre-Interview – step to be taken before the interview
Stage 2 – During Interview – steps to be takes during the interview
Stage 3 – post –Interview – steps to be taken after the interview
The Pre-Interview Strategies
Make sure the job you are applying for is not simply a job for you but an ‘interest’ that you want to explore and grow in. Only then your interaction with the interviewer will become significant. You need to know the destination before you embark on a journey. Rehearse your own salient features so that you can sell yourself well. So, ask yourself how would you make a difference and why would you hire ‘yourself’.
Be well informed about the Organization. A professional will never walk into an interview without preparation. Run a search through the website. This is a primary requirement. Look around for newsletters or any recent press releases.
Study the job description so that you are aware of the expectations from the company. You can always call up the company to find out about the profile so that there is no ambiguity between expectation and response.
Prepare well the questions that you want to ask. Before close of an interview the interviewer would generally ask whether the prospective job seeker would have any questions. This is a good indication so utilize your opportunity intelligently.
During the Interview-Strategies
Formal attire is always advisable, no matter what ever job it may be at which ever whatever level. Get there before time. Be pleasant to the “gate-keeper”. Often a job seeker’s attitude is observed right from the reception desk. Remember to greet with a warm, genuine smile, make eye contact, shake hands, get to know the name and use it in the conversation.
Be conscious of the right body language that shows you are enthusiastic, confident, and comfortable with the interview process. Ask for permission to enter and wait to be asked to take a seat. Greet your interviewer with a smile and a warm handshake. The posture should be erect and attentive. Match your demeanor to that of the interviewers. You can use humor if your interviewer speaks on a lighter note – but only to an extent to make your interviewer understand that you are “likeable” but not overbearing.
Listen carefully; respond only after the question has been completed. Ensure your answers are short and precise. Do not offer more than you have been asked. If you're not sure you've given enough information, simply ask, "Did I answer that sufficiently for you, or would you like more details
"Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another.” Napoleon Hill
Exit Elegantly: Shake hands and thank your interviewer for his/her time, preferably use the name, with a prefix as applicable (Mr., Ms., etc.) Remember to pick up your belonging so that you do not have to come back again to pick it up.
The Post Interview Strategies
You could send an e-mail or a snail mail but send a note of thanks immediately after the interview. You will create an impression that would set you above the rest. It will also speak of your concern for business etiquette. You can also mention you would be happy to provide any information that they might require.
Whether you get the job or not, remember, you might face one of your interviewers again some time later in future. You can rest assure the impression you create today will open many doors with several options!
Ahona Ghosh
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