How to Survive the Interview Stage

 

Putting yourself on the job market comes with a sense of vulnerability and exposure. Never mind the stress of being put through the ringer of seemingly endless questions probing your past, present and future!

Fortunately, being interviewed is not nearly as scary as you think and there are a few simple guidelines you can follow to calm those nerves and ensure you are not only prepared but putting your best foot forward.

A Week Before

This is the time for research. Learn all you can about the company you will be interviewing with. This involves everything from their products, company ethos and Board of Directors. Make note which things resonate with you as this may be asked in the interview.

Go over your CV and make sure the information you are relaying verbally matches what you have on the page. This sounds silly, but it easy to forget finer details and any discrepancy here will sow seeds of doubt in your employers.

Read the job description provided by your Recruiter. Make sure to note any questions you may have.

The Day Before

If you are looking a bit scruffy, go get a haircut and make sure all personal maintenance is taken care of. Use a good facial scrub! This will not only clear any imperfections, you will feel fresh and ready.

Iron the outfit you plan to wear and polish those shoes. Lay out everything before going to be so there is no last-minute rush, especially if you have an early morning interview. Also ensure you have a copy of your CV, the job description and directions to the company printed and ready in a folder.

Just Before the Interview

Have a breath mint and use a sparing spray of deodorant or aftershave. If you are a smoker, refrain from having a cigarette at least an hour before your interview time. Chew some minty gum. Breathe.

During the Interview

Sit upright and be attentive. Consider the questions you are being asked and answer them honestly. Make eye contact and don't forget to smile when it's appropriate!

Do not fidget and remember to ask questions of your own as this shows your own interest.

Afterward

The worst is over! Take time to reflect on the interview and if there were questions you could have given better responses to. Do not stress about the feedback and treat yourself to a coffee or a few minutes downtime.