* This is a guest post by Ellen Wray. Be sure to check out her personal blog here: http://feastsandflicks.wordpress.com *
You did it! You applied to your dream job and got a call for an interview. You know you are one step closer to your goal, but then the panic sets in. Interviews are nerve racking to say the least, but there are several tricks that make the process easier. Here are five tips I’ve found make the process a little less daunting.
1. Prepare.
This may sound obvious, but it is amazing how far a little preparation can go. Don’t walk into an interview knowing nothing about the company you are trying to work for. A quick Google search and a browse through the company website is all you need. Know some facts about their recent news, company culture, and products or services. With the job market so competitive, your potential employer is not going to consider you if you can’t show your knowledge and interest in the company.
2. Look the Part
If you want to come off as a viable candidate, prove it through your outward appearance. While some professions may expect a potential candidate to wear a suit or a professional dress to an interview, keep in mind that this is not always the case. When interviewing for PR positions, I have found that wearing something that looks put together but still shows off my personality is a way to stand out. It is all about choosing something you feel comfortable and confident wearing.
3. Have Questions Ready
You walk into an interview expecting to answer questions, but also have a few of your own. Not only do questions allow you a chance to get more information about the position you are applying for, but they also help employers see that you are proactive about learning more. I always like to ask about the people I will be working with most often and what task would make up a typical day.
4. Show You’re Passionate
If you really want a job, don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm. While you shouldn’t go overboard with the praise at the risk of sounding insincere, employers always like to hear that you are interested in the company or position. I work at a television network and my boss automatically gives special consideration to candidates that express their love for the network’s programming. Don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve just a little.
5. Say Thank You
Always remember that the interview isn’t really over until you have sent a thank you note. Someone took time out of their day to meet with you, so it is important to show your gratitude. Besides being polite, a thank you note is a great way to make a final impression, and gives employers one last hint that you really do want the job.
And with those simple tricks, you are five steps closer to mastering the interview. So, take a deep breath and face it with confidence!
You did it! You applied to your dream job and got a call for an interview. You know you are one step closer to your goal, but then the panic sets in. Interviews are nerve racking to say the least, but there are several tricks that make the process easier. Here are five tips I’ve found make the process a little less daunting.
1. Prepare.
This may sound obvious, but it is amazing how far a little preparation can go. Don’t walk into an interview knowing nothing about the company you are trying to work for. A quick Google search and a browse through the company website is all you need. Know some facts about their recent news, company culture, and products or services. With the job market so competitive, your potential employer is not going to consider you if you can’t show your knowledge and interest in the company.
2. Look the Part
If you want to come off as a viable candidate, prove it through your outward appearance. While some professions may expect a potential candidate to wear a suit or a professional dress to an interview, keep in mind that this is not always the case. When interviewing for PR positions, I have found that wearing something that looks put together but still shows off my personality is a way to stand out. It is all about choosing something you feel comfortable and confident wearing.
3. Have Questions Ready
You walk into an interview expecting to answer questions, but also have a few of your own. Not only do questions allow you a chance to get more information about the position you are applying for, but they also help employers see that you are proactive about learning more. I always like to ask about the people I will be working with most often and what task would make up a typical day.
4. Show You’re Passionate
If you really want a job, don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm. While you shouldn’t go overboard with the praise at the risk of sounding insincere, employers always like to hear that you are interested in the company or position. I work at a television network and my boss automatically gives special consideration to candidates that express their love for the network’s programming. Don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve just a little.
5. Say Thank You
Always remember that the interview isn’t really over until you have sent a thank you note. Someone took time out of their day to meet with you, so it is important to show your gratitude. Besides being polite, a thank you note is a great way to make a final impression, and gives employers one last hint that you really do want the job.
And with those simple tricks, you are five steps closer to mastering the interview. So, take a deep breath and face it with confidence!