Getting an interview call for a lucrative job is an opportunity you simply cannot miss. To ace the interview and get the job, you may want to enroll in a short interviewing skills training course. But what are the effective interviewing skills you should possess? Read on for more information!
Research Organization and Job Description
It’s important to research the organization for which you are interviewing. Gain basic information about the company’s vision, mission, profile and recent milestones. You should also analyze the specific department for which you are being considered as well as the job description. Make a list of the skills and experience you possess that would help you perform the job and value to the job role. It’s likely that you will be asked questions about your education, so brush up on subject matter and be prepared to present your knowledge well.
Prepare Well-Thought Answers
An interviewing skills training course will help you prepare for potential interview questions. Most interviewers ask questions such as “Tell me more about yourself” and “Why do you want this job”. They also ask questions about your ambitions and where you would like to see yourself in five years or so. It’s a good practice to prepare customized answers to these questions and organize your thoughts before going to the interview. You should clarity about fundamental things such as your short-term and long-term goals, your strengths and accomplishments.
Appear Professional and Unfazed
While responding to interview questions, it’s important to be calm and confident but not boastful. You should not be in a hurry to blurt out answers as this can make you look rehearsed or worse, unsure. Give crisp and clear answers unless you are specifically asked for detailed explanations. Focus on what the interviewer is talking about and respond in a courteous and professional manner. If you do not know the answer to a particular question, do not indulge in guesswork. Answer truthfully and admit that you do not know the answer.
Non Verbal Communication
It all starts with a firm handshake and goes on to how you communicate yourself through body language. For example, slouching in the seat, being fidgety or constantly looking towards the clock are big no-nos. Sitting upright, making eye contact with the interviewer, following the interviewer’s lead in style of talking are all examples of good non-verbal communication. It’s also important to show that you are actively listening to what the interviewer is saying and not show signs of nervousness.
Thank the Interviewer
There are several other things you can go to make a good impression on the interviewer. Reach well in time for the interview so you don’t end up wasting the interviewer’s time. Maintain positive attitude and body language even if you’re being asked tough questions. And no matter how the interview goes, do not forget to thank the interviewer for their valuable time and consideration for job position. Remember, an interview is all about showcasing your skills, personality and attitude.
Ravi Ragoonath is an Executive Director at CTS College of Business and Computer Science Ltd. Ravi writes about education topics. To the students, he is a coach, a mentor and a friend. To his staff, he is creative, innovative and extremely positive. For more such tips, join an interviewing skills training course!