In 1912, the RMS Titanic became the most infamous ship in history as it struck an iceberg causing the unsinkable vessel to promptly sink. The deadliest disaster in the history civilian sea travel has been used as a metaphor for our own country’s economic crisis lately. There are lessons to be learned from the story of the Titanic and recently Fox Small Business Network shared ways to make sure your next interview doesn’t strike any icebergs.
- Dress Properly. The first impression is a lasting one. Regardless of the dress code in the office always arrive professionally dressed for an interview. Make sure your clothes are neat, clean and appropriate.
- Put away your cell phone. Everyone carries a cell phone but don’t make the mistake of letting it ring while you’re in the interview. And if it does – don’t answer it! This happens more than you might think so to avoid temptation and leave your phone turned off or in your car.
- Be attentive and engaged. Body language will say as much about you as your answers. Pay attention to the speaker and engage with them. Don’t sit back with your arms folded like you don’t want to be there.
- Speak confidently. To be a great candidate for a company you need to prove it. Speak confidently about your background and experience and show them that you are truly interested in their business.
- Plan your phone interview. If you have a phone interview try to conduct it on a land line. If you don’t have access to a land line phone pick the location where you plan to have the conversation and do test calls to friends prior to the appointment. Don’t let a dropped call stand in the way of your next opportunity.
- Be trustworthy. A company needs to hire someone they trust so do everything you can to instill that sense in the interviewer. Make sure you show up on time and remain positive during the interview.
- Practice your elevator pitch. You will be asked “Tell me about yourself” so make sure you know your own answer. It is okay to be proud of your accomplishments.
- Don’t be negative. Whatever you do, don’t badmouth your previous employer. This will make the interviewer think that you have a negative attitude or you will feel the same about them.
- Rehearse. Interviewing is a skill and it takes practice. Talk to friends and family about your interview and let them ask you a few questions and give you feedback.
- Ask questions. Prove to the interviewer that you are interested in their business. Ask questions about their company, about the job and about the future.
Looking for a company with a record of smooth sailing? Contact CornerStone today.
