For a generation weaned on email, Facebook and Twitter a face-to-face interview can seem a little daunting.
But combining a little common sense with advice from hire-and-fire experts can go a long way to getting you that dream job.
Here are their top tips for that New Year job hunt:
- On time is 15 minutes early — Today is not the day to oversleep or miss the bus, nor is it impressive to arrive more than a quarter-hour early. “If you’re more than 15 minutes early, you’re going to be waiting around and it comes off a little sketchy. So, 15 minutes early, non-negotiable,” says Lauren Ferarra, of New York-based Creative Circle.
- Now is not the time to wing it — Do your research by re-reading the job description and anticipating what questions they might pose. Learn about the company too, so that you know what you’re talking about. “Anticipate what the company is looking for, who they want to hire, and what type of problem are they trying to solve,” advises Kristy Stromberg, from a leading online jobs listing site
- Don’t underestimate the power of a smile — A first impression is a lasting impression for an interviewer. “A handshake and eye contact are incredibly important,” says Ms Ferarra, “but people really do undervalue a smile. You really want to come across as someone they want to work with.”
- Get your nerves under control — It’s vital that you focus on your voice and avoid sounding nervous. “You can have a lot of adrenalin running through your body and that’s when you get the wavering voice. Practise questions out loud. Do some breathing exercises, calm down and just focus,” says public speaking coach Michael Weiss. And never allow your tone to show you‘ve been rattled by the interviewer. “You need to read the personality of the person that you are interviewing with,” he adds. “If they’re very staid and very buttoned-up, you probably want to be a little succinct and short with your answers and mirror their personality.”
- Don’t tell porkies — With today’s social networks it’s too easy to double-check a candidate’s experience or references. “An interviewer can speak to people they know through a common network to check out your story,” warns Ms Stromberg. “They can consult people that you have not offered up as a reference to see if you really can do what you said you can. So make sure that your story and your message is consistent.”
- And don’t forget to say thank you — Part of leaving a good impression is showing your appreciation, adds Ms Ferarra. “As you leave make sure you get the interviewer’s card and follow up with a thank you email. They’ll remember that in the long run.”
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