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3 Stages of the Interview Process:
Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Non verbal communication tips for interviews
Before the Interview (Preparation)
Your Appearance & Dressing for the Interview “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
Do not underestimate the importance of your personal appearance. Personal neatness and cleanliness are important and you are expected to dress as if you would immediately fit into that company. You do not need a lot of clothes for interviewing, but what you have should be of good quality, properly fitted, clean and well pressed, and reflective of current business styles. Follow these tips. Overview: * Bring a folder/portfolio to hold additional resume copies and a pen * Have clean, well-manicured fingernails; conservative length and no polish preferred * Use perfume only in moderation * Wear shoes that are well maintained * Iron/press your clothing * Dress for the job you want, not the one you have Attire: * Conservative tailored suit or suit dress * Conservative, frill-less blouse * Skirt length: Top of knee down; avoid extreme slits * Basic medium/low-heeled pumps,shined; neutral hosiery * Handbag: Small and appropriate to outfit * Conservative jewelry coordinated with outfit and avoid dangles
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Know yourself & how to communicate your relevant skills and experiences * Conduct an analysis of your strengths, weaknesses, and goals and how they relate to the employer. Know the employer and what they are looking for * Research the employer, the position, the field. Anticipate and Plan * Anticipate questions you may be asked and devise ways to tell the employer things you want her to know. * Prepare questions to ask that demonstrate your interest, motivation and knowledge of the organization. * Arrive at least 10 minutes before the interview, giving yourself time to relax and feel in control. Practice (aloud) to reduce anxiety * State your strong points for the position and provide concrete examples and anecdotal evidence to support them. Dress * The appropriate attire will contribute to a positive first impression. Social Media * Check what others see when they search by your name.
Negative qualities that lead to rejection of a candidate in an interview include: * Poor personal appearance * Candidate is perceived as overbearing, overly aggressive, conceited or a know it all * Inability to express self clearly – poor voice, diction, grammar * Lack of interest and enthusiasm – passive, indifferent * Lack of confidence and poise Improve the impression you make during the interview by following these tips: * Make good eye contact to demonstrate interest and to be positively remembered; don’t stare * Use facial expressions – smile * Use a firm handshake, not limp or bone crushing. Lean into it and bend your arm at the elbow * Demonstrate good posture and body position. Sit comfortably with shoulders fairly erect and chin level * Demonstrate interest and active listening skills by nodding, leaning forward slightly and using hand gestures as appropriate * Keep enthusiasm in your voice by using a self assured, confident tone * Be cognizant of your appearance and the impression it can make