TIPS FOR FACING THE INTERVIEW

Dress appropriately in simple

• Wear comfortable clothes that reflect your personality.
• Avoid wearing new shoes to avoid squeaking noises.
• Do practice wearing a tie.

Be punctual

• Don't be late or even too early.
• Avoid excuses like traffic jams, etc.

Reading

• What business they are into, growth trends, diversification etc.
• Be sure you have read the job description and understand the requirement.
• Be sure that you don't have to look into your resume to recall details during the interview.

Carry extra copies of your resume and testimonials

• You never know when you may need them.
• Make sure you know the full name and designation of the person(s) interviewing you.
• Keep your references ready.
• Remember to make a note of your previous or current salary with all its components.
• Make a good first impression.
• Wish the interviewer(s) cheerfully and with a smile.
• A firm handshake is an indicator of how you are feeling.
• If you are a lady, then some male employers might not make the first move, but go ahead and initiate the handshake.
• Wait till you are asked to sit down.
• Look the person in the eye.

Do not appear too nervous or overconfident

• Your body language usually conveys more than what you are saying.
• Don't slouch or lean forward too much.
• Try to curb nervous mannerisms [eg. fidgeting or biting your finger.] Appear comfortable, confident and interested in securing the job.

During the interview

• Start the interview with a pleasant smile.
• Listen carefully to what the interviewer is saying.
• Stress on what you can contribute to the organization.
• Remember that the employer is in control of the interview.
• Don't be too long-winded, say what you want to convey in crisp sentences and use terms that would convey your job & achievements.
• Complete your sentences - don't answer just yes or no.
• What you don't know can be learned, tell them if you don't know something.
• But give instances of how quick a learner you are.
• Do not boast.
• People on the other side are shrewd and can generally see through you.
• At the same time talk about achievements giving due credit to others.
• When talking about yourself and your aspirations, do not sound vague or do not say that you don't know something.
• You should be very clear and precise about what you want to do, where you want to go etc.
• If you don't understand a question ask for clarification, don't answer vaguely.
• Don't talk about your personal problems, why you need the job etc.
• Don't get personal, even if you know the interviewer personally.
• Don't badmouth your previous employer - you could do the same in the case of the prospective customer.
• Don't complain about politics, a bad boss or a poor salary - your reasons for change should be higher responsibilities, location etc.
• If the interviewer is interrupted during the course of the interview, don't pick up papers on his/her desk and read them.
• Don't ask about salary before the offer is made.
• Strike a balance between what you actually are and what you want to be, don't paint a picture of yourself as somebody who is not concerned about money, social status etc.
• Don't be in a hurry to complete the interview.
• Ask questions at the end of the interview, it could be about the company, the job or the next stage of the interview process.
• It will be an indicator of your interest in the position.
• Send a thank-you letter, outlining your interest in the job and why you are qualified for it.