10 ways to perform well at a job interview
A recruitment interview for most of us is one of the most stressful moments. Especially when we care about a certain position or company to which we are applying. After all, the course of the conversation with the recruiter determines whether the company will offer us a job. That’s why we decided to share 10 ways to reduce your stress and present yourself at your best.
- Try to relax!
On the evening before your interview, try to relax. Read a good, engaging book, listen to music, take a soothing bath. Try to occupy your thoughts with something other than the meeting awaiting you the following day.
- Be punctual
By being on time, you show the recruiter that you are responsible, can be counted on and are serious about your responsibilities. Of course, it may happen that your car breaks down or you have a bump on the way to the interview, but that’s why it’s a good idea to leave home a little earlier. Being late, regardless of the reason, is not very welcome.
- Prepare for the interview
Think about your answers to the most common interview questions, review your resume and other application documents you sent in the recruitment process. It may happen that you simply don’t remember in detail your duties at previous companies – and a person who can’t recall what they did for a living, unfortunately, can’t hope to get a favorable look from a recruiter. Refresh your skills and, if necessary, the foreign language you declared in your resume, especially if you haven’t spoken the language in a long time.
- Make sure you look your best
Your clothing should be clean, ironed and neat. Preferably, prepare your recruitment outfit the day before, so that in the morning you don’t have to run around looking for parts of your apparel. For most positions, the optimal outfit will be a shirt and jacket plus casual pants, and for women, boots that are not too high, a knee-length skirt and light makeup. An overly elegant outfit is as bad a choice as one that is too casual.
- Try not to get stressed
For most of us, a recruitment interview is a big and stressful experience. However, excessive stress can cause our complete “block”. Try to behave in a casual, natural way. Pay attention to your handshake – it should not be too firm, but not flaccid either, after all, you show confidence with it. A smile is highly recommended! Any recruiter will find it more pleasant to talk to a person who is optimistic and cheerful.
- Answer the questions
The recruiter wants to learn as much as possible from you. Don’t shy away from answering questions, speak decisively and try to be comprehensive in your response. Vague answers will not be favorably received – they suggest that the candidate wants to hide something or does not have much to say.
- Take an interest!
Ask questions – about the company you’ve applied to, about the position you’re applying for, your possible path to promotion, and anything else that simply interests you. Remember that it is not just the company that is supposed to want to work with you. You, too, are supposed to like the place and the tasks and challenges presented to you!
- Talk about yourself a lot and… nicely
Learn to talk about your achievements and successes. It doesn’t come easily to many of us, but if you have something to brag about – you will only gain from it!
- Don’t be afraid the question about expected salary….
…which is bound to occur! Talking about money at a recruitment interview is not a bad thing. The employer needs to know if he can afford you, and you need to know if you’ll be willing to work for a certain wage. Before the interview, go through the current salary reports so you know what kind of spread you can expect.
- Why should the company hire you?
Well? Show the recruiter what value you are capable of providing, what ideas you have for improving things at work, highlight what skills you can excel at.