Rules for Job Interview Success

Remember the power of body language. Your communication message comes through in three elements:

1. Verbal – what you say (the words you choose).
2. Vocal – how you say what you say (inflection, volume, intonation).
3. Visual – what you look like (body language).

Okay, here is what is really important. Your message comes through each of these elements in different percentages (which means some of the elements of communication are more important than others). Only 7% of your message comes through in your verbal (words), 38% comes through in your vocal (intonation) and 55% comes through in your visual (body language). That means what you look like, your facial expressions, how you sit, how you shake hands all convey more of your real message than what you say and how you say it. This is because what you really feel is conveyed to your 53 facial muscles without any “editing.”

When it comes to the words we choose and the way we say things, we can edit and control our delivery. So watch your body language. If the interviewer describes a the hours of the job and you hate working second shift, you may say “fine” but your face will convey that hours are not fine. You may actually roll your eyes or shake your head as you say fine. The interviewer believes your body language more than your spoken language.

The same works in the reverse. When your body language is excited, interested and engaged, it creates a greater impression than just if your language and tone is upbeat and positive. So get excited about your interview – it will show. 


Be confident, not arrogant.

There is a fine line between being confident and sure of your abilities, and starting every sentence with “I.” Confidence is what they want to see in an interview and if you are applying for a job that uses what you are good at, and you are passionate about doing, you will be confident. If you interview for jobs that don’t match your interests, talents and passions, you will find that you have to make yourself sound greater and more “extraordinary.” This is what makes you soundarrogant. So, be casual and confident. Go into the interviewjob and will be able to make a big difference. Don’t be humble. Don’t be arrogant. Be confident.  knowing you are a good fit for the

Make sure you know all the facts.

Be sure you know the expectations, pay rate, working conditions, benefits, and any specific details of the job; confirm your understanding of the details of the position during your interview. This not only ensures you are well informed so you can make a good decision about accepting or not accepting the job, but it also shows the interviewer that you have done your homework to understand the company and are ensuring your understanding is accurate and complete. This shows focus, conscientiousness and commitment – all attributes needed in any position. 


Look for common ground.

There are studies out that support that we connect best to people who share similar interests or attributes with us. As you approach your interview, notice pictures, objects, awards and other things that first give you information about the interviewer, but also help you see areas about which you both can connect. If you both have coached soccer, lived in a section of a city, drive a certain car, etc…you have some commonality. This makes the interview more personal and more comfortable for both. 

Focus on your value.

Interviews are the time for you to give more details about what you are great at and how you add value. Don’t be shy about your ability to make a difference. Be sure you can quantify your impact; give details about how you improved things, invented things, saved the company money, brought a team more together, etc. The more you can focus the interview around your value, the more the hiring company will see that they need you. 


Be positive, upbeat, optimistic and congenial.

Notice details around you to ask about to start a casual conversation; this helps both parties relax. Be human and work first to connect to the interviewer as a person. 


Impressions matter.

Be on time. Be professional and conservative in your appearance. Watch the length of the skirt and the cut of the blouse. Shirts should be pressed, neat and should fit you. Your care about yourself is a statement about the care of your work. 


 







  

Dressing for success in job interview

Once you ve made it to the interview stage, it s important not to ruin your chances of getting the job by making an easily avoidable mistake. Everyone knows that it s important to dress appropriately for a job interview 


 


 


 


 

Interview techniques and interview questions

Questions

1. Behavioral interview questions are a different format from traditional interview questions. Behavioral interview questions are in a "STAR" format, which stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result. The interviewer will ask such questions as: "Give me a situation in which you took a risk. What was the situation? What was the task that you performed? What was the action(s) that you took? What were the end results?" The interviewer is looking for specifics and will ask probing questions to understand the thought processes behind the behaviors performed.

Responses

2. Interviewees should answer the questions in the format provided and keep their examples succinct. Describe the situation and provide background information. Do not use jargon, but if it must be used, define the terms. Set the stage for the interviewer and paint a picture in the interviewer's mind. Describe the atmosphere in terms of people, processes and technology. Provide details about the task that was undertaken. Was the task self-initiated or assigned by a manager or co-worker? Explain to the interviewer the logic behind the actions taken. Was another department engaged because of obstacles? Was it necessary to go outside of the company to get the job done? Last but not least, highlight the positive results of the actions. Was money or time saved?

Preparation

3. Preparation is key to a behavioral interview. Speak with the company to find out what skills are missing within the department. Prepare the behavioral interview responses that will address the gap in skills. Have at least two to three examples for each skill that the job listing highlights. Do not be afraid to use examples from community, school or church activities; all of the examples do not need to be work-related. Using examples from outside activities also shows that the interviewee is well rounded. 

 


 

  

Job Interview Success Tips

Be prepared for your job interview. Practice answering questions you think the employer will ask. Do some research about the company you are applying for. The more information you bring into the interview the better off you are which will help alleviate the stress that is accustomed during this process. Be prepared to answer questions about yourself and your past experience. 


Being on time for a job interview is extremely important. If you are late this first thing the employer will think is what kind of work habits you have. Try to come early for your job interview at least 15-20 minutes. This shows the employer that you are dedicated and have good work habits. The last thing an employer wants to do is hire a problem employee.

How you are dressed is extremely important. This doesn't necessary mean you have to wear a tie but dress pants with a nice dress-shirt is something that I would recommend. Do not wear your jeans and casual shirts to a job interview. You will be judged on how you present yourself not only by what you wear but how you act as well. Try to remain calm and focused and looking at the employer in the eyes is recommended but do not stare. Never lie during your interview if you don't know the answer then be honest.

During an interview you usually are the one answering questions but do not hesitate to ask questions as well. By asking relevant questions about the job position this indicates to the employer that you are inquisitive about this position which helps strengthen your chances. Do not ask lots of questions but ask relevant questions during the process 

This is extremely important to have because many people walk in during an interview thinking they will not get the job. Try to be yourself and answer all questions promptly in a positive fashion. Remember to smile as well. A positive employee is generally a good employee.  

If you are interested in the position then let them know. Do not over stay your welcome as this will impact negatively on your interview. Thank them for your time and shake their hand. Be prepared to offer references to the employer. Remain positive during the whole process.