How to make a great impression in your job interview

They say first impression is the last impression. That is honestly the truth. How you come across in an interview can determine your success or failure. The job interview is your one chance to impress the interviewer or your possible employer. It gives a window of opportunity to put your real self ahead and sell yourself. Some interviewers have said that they know within the first 30 seconds if the person is going to get hired or not. 30 seconds! So does that mean you only have 30 seconds to make your impression? Probably not.

There is a reason why the hiring process is so layered and lengthy. Some companies have multiple rounds, testing the candidate at each round for a different skill. Companies have also started creating customized surveys that allow them to perceive the candidate’s personal, emotional, and mental capabilities. Once you have crossed hurdles like those, the main event is the interview. There are certain skills and techniques you can use to impress your potential employer during a job interview.

RESEARCH- Take some time to research the company, the organization, and the team. Understand its culture, history, and background. If possible, look for customer reviews or any news related to the company. Study the hierarchy and the team so you can gauge what your role demands from you. Note down the company’s rivals or competitors. Having a strong understanding and knowledge of who you may work for will definitely put you in an advanced position. You can also mention your research during the interview subtly. For example let’s see your company has an office or a factory from the city/country you are originally from. You can say something like ‘When you launched in XYZ city, I was living there or working nearby and saw the impact and attraction your brand/company had.’ The idea is to use your research POSITIVELY to prove to your interviewer that you are resourceful, hardworking, and can research independently.

PREPARE- Have answers ready for some common questions such as-

• Tell us about yourself
• Why are you interested in this role?
• If you get this role, what would you be doing to handle a specific situation?
• How does your day look like?
• Why did you leave your previous job?
• What did you gain from your previous job/degree/experience?

Keep your answers succinct, simple, and subliminal. Don’t try too hard by using jargon or fancy words. Stick to what you know best and speak clearly. They want to know why you are the only one who can give them what they need. Your answers should eventually create your persona and sell you to the company. Don’t use cliches, offensive languages, or terms. Avoid name-dropping or mentioning connections to anyone important. Respect the interviewer and their process. Be confident, calm, and assured.

HAVE QUESTIONS- Study the job posting and know as much as you can about it. It is fair that you will have questions about the position, your team, your pay, and other specifics. The interviewer will ask you at the end of the interview if you have some questions. Wait for them to suggest that. Don’t butt in during their segment or questions. But be upfront and honest that you have some questions. Don’t hesitate or feel afraid to ask what you think is important. There are many things that get negotiated or worked out in interviews so be confident about yourself.

BE CONFIDENT- The fact that you got an interview is always a good sign. So, don’t panic or be nervous. Use your energy in a positive manner. State your skills, your experience, and assure them why you would be a great candidate for the job. Smile, and sit comfortably. Engage your interviewers in a conversation by crafting a story. Don’t bore them with facts or rote reading. Tell them why you took a particular action in your past role and what the result was. Show that you are result and goal oriented. Wear appropriate interview attire. If you are doing a remote interview, inform your family or children to not disturb you. Inform the interviewer of your living situation so they may be aware that you live with family.

After your interview is done and you have to wait for the results, follow up with an email informing that you thank them for the interview and reiterate why you would be amazing for the job. Sometimes a follow-up message or email can make a world of a difference. It’s also always a good idea to part on friendly terms for any future or potential connection. If you have been recommended by a friend, do share the interview details with them and thank them for recommending you. This ensures that your friend or colleague will also again put in a positive word for you post the interview. Some candidates prefer asking why they were not selected. This is so that they know not to repeat the same mistakes at another interview. It is always a good idea to appreciate constructive criticism and channel it smartly.