How to Conquer The Interview
Keeping calm during a job interview is often easier said than done. Maybe you already set the bar high if you worked with a CV writing service and got the employer’s attention with your impeccable CV?. However, while your resume, experience, skills, and education are all important factors in landing the job, the interview is usually a company’s first real impression of you.
1. Prepare as much as possible
Once you know the interview is happening, the work begins. To prepare for the interview, start by researching the company by visiting its website, social channels, and reading articles or press releases the company has published. Part of the prep is also practicing answers to common interview questions such as identifying your strengths, weakness, and why you’re interested in the position. You will feel more confident prepping your answers ahead of time.
2. Write down questions
While researching the company, write down questions you would like to ask the interviewer about the specifics of the company, culture, or position. Physically writing these questions down can help you remember them better during the interview. Make sure to use a professional pen that won’t smear or smudge like the G-750 Gel Retractable Pen. It has rapid dry gel ink and a unique hexagonal barrel design. Or if you’re a fan of ballpoint pens, Choose Different with the STEEL F-402 Ballpoint Retractable Pen. It has a weighted barrel, comfort grip, and comes in both blue and black ink.
3. Skip excessive caffeine
Caffeine can sometimes amplify nerves, so it’s best not to overdo it on the day of your interview. Stick to one cup of coffee or tea in the morning and then switch to water to prevent the jitters and instead stay hydrated the rest of the day. This will keep your mind sharp without increasing feeling of anxiety or nerves.
4. Arrive early to the interview
Whether you are interviewing virtually or in-person, aim to sign on or arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to collect your thoughts and review any last-minute preparations. If you are interviewing virtually, this will also give you time to triple-check your internet connection and audio/video quality. If you are interviewing in-person, it allows you flexibility to find the right building or office in adequate time. Being punctual also shows that you respect your interviewer’s time, and you are serious about the position.
If you’re interviewing virtually, make sure to check out these additional tips to ace your virtual interview. Whether the position is remote or in a different part of the country, or the employer is unable to have an interview at the job location, it’s important to be just as prepared for a virtual interview as an in-person one.
5. Slow down and speak mindfully
During the interview, remember to take deep breaths and slow down. Take your time to formulate your thoughts—this will not only allow you to articulate a well thought out answer, but it will also demonstrate that you can work well under pressure. Thinking of the interview as an open conversation can help alleviate some of the stress involved, too. After all, you need to determine whether this job is a fit for you just as much as showing that you’re a fit for it.
Interviews can be stressful and nerve-wracking, but they don’t have to be. Next time you have an important interview, use these tips to remain calm and knock it out of the park.
