10 Errors not to make in an Interview - [website] Published: 4th of Feb 2011 by: (c) Staff Training Staff Reporter
One of the most important parts of getting the job you want is the interview
Yhis step shows the employer who you are, what you’re like and whether you’ll be able to perform all the tasks required of the job on offer.
Before we go over the dos and don’ts of going to interviews it’s important to make sure that you’ve done a fair amount of research on the company. It makes a good impression to know how many offices the company operates from, in how many countries, when it was started and exactly what the business does.
In addition to this, make sure you know where the business’s premises are and how long it will take you to get there; there is no excuse for being late to a job interview, however, if you do run late be sure to phone the company ahead of the scheduled time to explain.
While your CV is a vital part of representing yourself, the interview gives the employer a better idea of what kind of person you are, how you present yourself and how well prepared and serious you are about the interview.
You should always dress smarter than the establishment when attending job interviews and if you’re not sure about the dress code you should stray towards conservatism.
The following are examples of good practises at job interviews:
·Plan to arrive about ten minutes before the interview is scheduled to start and greet the receptionist courteously
·Ask the receptionist how to pronounce any surnames you aren’t sure of
·Always use the interviewer’s title (Dr./Mr./Mrs./Ms.) and surname when addressing them unless otherwise instructed
·Take a copy of your CV to the interview
You need to bear in mind that everything you say and do, from your posture to your tone of voice, will either count for or against you during a job interview. Sitting up straight, speaking clearly and being sincere all come through during the consultation. Think about what kind of questions the interviewer is going to ask you and develop appropriate responses, but don’t make your answers sound rehearsed. Highlight your achievements and qualifications and let the interviewer know that you are serious about getting the job.
10 errors not to make in an interview:
·Discuss controversial topics, family or personal issues
·Try to tell jokes or be overly friendly
·Discuss previous work colleagues in a negative light
·Deceive the employer
·Ask only about salary and benefits
·Say you are desperate for the job or act as though any job would do
·Answer questions with ‘yes’ or ‘no’ and not elaborate
·Ask no questions. This shows a lack of interest in the company or position
·Sit before you are offered a seat
·Chew gum
When talking to the interviewer you should always avoid using swear words, slang and words such as ‘um’, ‘uh’, and ‘like’ (pause words). Don’t offer any negative information about your self and don’t act more interested in what you will get out of the company than what you can put into it.
Be assertive, polite, well spoken and organised and you will have a far greater chance of getting the job than if you go unprepared. A little research and courtesy can go a long way when it comes to being interviewed and getting the job you really want.
