“Congratulations, you got the job!” Ah how we all wish to hear these words when we eagerly go for that interview. Yet in reality most of the time, it’s not that simple and we’re met with “HR will contact you.” psst...fyi THEY NEVER CALL BACK!! GRRRRRRRR!!!
Well, some of us don’t realize that the interview is a game of strategy. It is a back and forth of parlance and psychological gaming. There’s countless strategies in the playbook but let me share some of the more basic ones that if mastered, can land you that dream job.
Preparatory Phase
“Preparation is half the battle”
Before walking into the interview, remember to prepare yourself with….
Your CV
This is essential for a good first impression, without a CV in hand you’ve already lost the game.
Your outfit
Dress to impress, and dress for the job that you want. Being well dressed also directly affects your confidence inside and out.
Confidence
Confidence is key. Believing in yourself and your abilities to succeed in the role, your interviewer will feel it and it will make the interview much smoother.
Prepare for any questions relating to the job, and curve-ball questions that the interviewer may ask you. Answer truthfully and with absolute confidence.
It is normal to be nervous before and during an interview, don’t worry, take a deep breath and if it boils down to it, fake it till you make it.
A notebook
Just in case you need to make notes about the job scope itself or any relevant information that you may forget or miss. It also shows that you’re organized and serves a good first impression.
The Introduction
Alright now you’re walking into the dragon’s den, no backing out now, it’s time to shine. Always remember….
Body Language
Remember when your parents used to tell you not to slouch? Now is the time to listen to them. Back straight walk with purpose.
Don’t cross your arms, it sends a message of discomfort and being closed off to the interviewer. Keep them on the table as you lean in, with the intent and message that you are fully paying attention to the interviewer and what they have to say.
Eye Contact
They say that eyes are the windows to the soul, one can convey many messages just by eye contact. With that in mind, remember to have strong and adequate amount of eye contact. Too little and it’s both rude and shows a lack of confidence, too much and it may be creepy or send the wrong message.
Handshake
A firm handshake is also vital for exuding confidence. Have a firm grip, shake 1-3 times while maintaining eye contact as you introduce yourself and your intent. Ask for the interviewers name, and commit it to memory. It will build rapport between both parties making conversation much smoother.
The Parlance
You’re in the spotlight now is your time to shine, you superstar!
Listen, Ask and Answer
Try not to lose focus, and listen to every detail of the job scope, ask questions when you’re unsure and answer questions provided to you respectfully, confidently and truthfully.
9. Noting
Note down any relevant information that you may either forget or deem useful for future references. This also helps you understand your job scope and helps you be more prepared on your first day.
Attitude and Rapport
Remember to be friendly and have a good attitude when you’re talking with the interviewer. If you put yourself in their shoes, when you hire someone, you’re going to be spending most of your time with them. Nobody wants to spend time with someone who is disrespectful, rude or mean.
Show your chops
Try to shine and show them why it is worth hiring you over all the other (potentially more qualified) candidates. There is a fine line between being cocky and confident, sell yourself and know your worth but don’t be obnoxious about it.
Coffee Time
If the interviewer offers you a coffee or any beverage, kindly accept it. It is the same as going to someone’s house and gracefully accepting a drink, and shows manners.
ALWAYS remember to wash your cups and clean up after yourself, this shows integrity and responsibility. It is the little things that count.
Post-Interview
Phew! The hard part is over, and now it’s time to finalize the deal.
Leaving
If you’re not in a hurry and the interviewer is up for it, maybe have a bit of small talk, it helps them gauge you as a person a little bit more. Once the interviewer shows you out, remember the tips about the firm handshake and thank them for the opportunity.
Following up
After a few days, email your interviewer or HR about your application. Most of us always wait for a reply, but the truth of the matter is that HR goes through hundreds of e-mails and multiple applicants a day, unless you’ve truly stood out the chances of getting an email back without a follow up is slim.
With a follow up, it shows perseverance, determination, and dedication to get the job as well, it may or may not boost your chances of getting hired.
Conclusion
Now it’s just time to wat for a reply!
Upon acceptance/rejection
Acceptance
Congratulations on your new job! Thank them and show gratitude where gratitude is due. Follow the procedure HR has requested you to do and DON’T BE LATE ON YOUR FIRST DAY!
Rejection
Things like this happen, it’s alright take it slow. Now that it’s over, you can try your luck again somewhere else, and with enough practice and finesse you can land any dream job you want!
