We unconsciously form opinions of people pretty much as soon as we meet them. First impressions are especially important when it comes to a job interview.
This means that you need to get the introduction right. Be friendly and project confidence (you don’t have to actually be confident to do this), look the interviewer in the eyes and give them a firm handshake.
Here's other ways you can stand out at a job interview.
Hygiene
It has to be said: your personal hygiene matters. Shower. Shave. Get a haircut. Put on deodorant. Clean your nails. We do these things as much for other people as we do for ourselves.
Dress well too. That doesn’t mean you have to wear a suit, but make an effort. Clean clothes, ironed and pressed. It’s all about those first impressions.
Do your Research
If possible, research the company and what they do. Get a sense of what their strategies and business plans are.
Even try research the interview team - find out what they like, what they do. If you share a hobby, mountain biking for instance, you may want to mention the last time you did it. Just don’t say you Facebook stalked them!
Ask the right questions
Towards the end of the interview, you’ll be asked if you have any questions.
The worst possible answer is “nope, that’s all.” If you say that, you’ll look like you didn’t take the time to find out anything about the company and what they do, and that you don’t care that much about the job.
Here are a couple of questions you could ask:
- Where do you see the company going in the next 10 years?
- What would make someone a really successful candidate for this role?
- How are decisions made here?
- How does [current issue] affect your business?
- What are the top 3 things about me that interested you?
Nail the follow-up
Interviewers are likely to see a lot of people. You want to (positively) stick in their minds.
The very same day, send a thank you note to them via email. That will serve as a second reminder of your interview. It might not guarantee you the job, but it can’t hurt.
Getting your job interview right is just as important as nailing your CV and cover letter.
You need to make a good impression are really sell yourself as the perfect candidate for the role.
With these tips in mind, you should have no trouble.
