Eight job interview tips on how to make a good impression

You sent out your resume and the call you have been waiting for has come. You have been called for a job interview and you couldn’t be more excited.

But there is a problem!

You don’t know where to begin.

Preparing for a job interview takes more than a Google search. You have to make a good and long-lasting impression.

Chances are you are not the only potential candidate who has been shortlisted and for that reason, you need to stand out for all the right reasons.

Here are a few tips on how to bring your A game and leave a good impression at your job interview.

1.Practice for the interview

Do a good amount of research on the organization that has invited you for the interview and get some background information on it.

You can also jot down a few possible questions that can be asked and practice on how to answer them.

2.Wear appropriate attire

During your interview, make sure that you are dressed smartly and decently.

Avoid being too flashy but also do not undersell yourself. Ensure that you are well groomed and you have pressed your clothes for that sharp look.

Don’t forget the small things like polishing your shoes and ensuring your nails are well manicured.

Also, don’t be tempted to wear strong colognes or perfumes that may irritate the panel of interviewers.

3.Review the job posting

See what the job position that you are being interviewed for entails and some of the roles and responsibilities that come with it.

Familiarize yourself with some of the skills that are required to execute the job efficiently. This will keep you on top of things and in turn boost your interviewer’s confidence with you.

4.Use the STAR method of answering

The STAR method of answering is an abbreviation for Situation, Task, Action and Result.

This is a pretty good guideline of answering questions in detail and in correct order ensuring that no bit of the question is left unanswered.

5.Follow up

A few days after the interview, do a small follow up on how you performed and when you are to expect some feedback as well.

Be sure to avoid looking needy or pestering while doing this. A maximum of two follow ups is good enough unless your potential employer has asked you to do so severally.

This is a sign of being proactive and of taking initiative.

6.Prepare a list of references

A good list of references is important as your interviewers may want to get more details about you from them.

Inform the people on your references that you have chosen them as your referees so as to prepare them in advance if they actually get a call.

With this preparation they will not be caught off guard and they will know what to answer. It is also important to know if your references are comfortable with backing you up on your curriculum vitae.

7.Carry all the necessary documents

Prepare yourself in advance and create a well-organized portfolio that details your skills and competencies.

Any documents that need to be printed should be done so in advance to avoid any last-minute rush on the day of the interview.

This will also help you remain calm and confident knowing that you are ready and set with the required documents and certificates.

Remember that your documents are the first interaction between you and your potential employer.

8.Prepare a few questions for your interviewers

After the interview, the panel may ask if you have any questions and it is good to have at least two questions.

This enables you to have a chance to share your knowledge on the little bit of research that you had done about the organization.

It also rubs off on the panel that you are confident. Be sure to express your gratitude for being invited to the interview and you look forward to further engagements with them.