TOP 10 Tips for a Successful Job Interview
#1 Make Eye Contact
Making eye contact during a job interview shows not only that you are confident, but also interested in what the interviewer has to say. But keep things normal and don't be creepy. Have a friendly demeanor and smile occasionally. People like to be around happy people.
#2 - A Good Handshake
Wait for the interviewer to offer up the hand shake. If s/he does, then reach out and shake hands. Again be normal. Unless you are applying for a position as a blacksmith, don't try to crush someone's hand. Apply the same amount of pressure as you would when holding a beer.
#3 Dress to Impress
Even if the job does not require you to dress in suit and tie, it is better to overdress in for a job interview than showing up too casual. A dark suit, white shirt, and classic tie will always be a good bet. For more tips check out my job interview dress guide
#4 - Polish Your Shoes
Give your black dress shoes some shine before heading to your job interview. Clean and polished shoes gives the impression that you got your life in order! Even if someone may not notice it right away, what they would certainly notice are dirty shoes. Don't take that risk. Polish your shoes!
#5 - Iron Your Shirt
Just like dirty dress shoes will make a bad impression, so will a wrinkled shirt. If you don't have much time then just iron the collar and the front of the shirt. The rest will be hidden underneath your jacket anyways.
#6 Read up on the Company
If you have followed my first 5 tips then you already made a great first impression which will set a positive tone for the rest of the interview. Now follow things up by showing that you have done your research when answering questions that the interviewer may throw at you.
#7 - Bring an Extra Resume
Don't expect that the interviewer has one printed out. Instead pull out two resumes: one for yourself and one for the interviewer.
#8 - Take Notes
Take some notes if there are things that you may have questions about or may want to look into further after the interview. Taking notes shows that you are interested. But again, don't overdo it. After all, you are the one being interviewed.
#9 - Have Questions Prepared
Asking questions about the job and the company is a great way to show that you have done your research, and are interested in the position. Personally, it is one of the things I value most when interviewing a new candidate.
#10 - Write a Thank You E-mail
This should go without saying, but surprisingly only 10% of the people I interview take a few minutes to follow up with a thank you note. Something as simply as: "Thank you again for taking the time to with me. I really appreciate the opportunity. After learning more about the position and the your company's culture, I feel confident that my skills and personality are a good fit. Thank you again for the opportunity and I look forward hearing from you."
