Whenever you're up for a new job, the interview process is something you always go through. You'd have to speak to the human resources manager, the officer-in-charge, or in very rare cases, the business owner. The bottom line here is that your first impression is definitely important. According to the Money Instructor, the interview "is the company's chance to ask you questions about your work experience. It is the company's opportunity to see if you would fit in with the other employees."
How do you get the interview to go your way and not, as what some people would put it, the highway where you'd just revert back to your grueling job search? Here are three cardinal rules you should always consider if you want to nail your interview.
Be Punctual — It is a Deal-breaker
Never turn up late. This is a mortal sin given the fact that your interviewer is always on a tight schedule. Even if they aren't, you should always consider that as you have to be considerate about everything. Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your schedule so you can easily settle in and adjust to your environment. Monster, a career hub full of great tips, cited career coach Alex Simon making a great point about punctuality by saying, "If you can't be punctual while asking for the job, how late will you be after you get hired?"
Focus During the Interview
Before you start your interview, put your phone on silent. You wouldn't want your loud ringtone disrupting the flow of the interview. Answering a call or text while you're being interviewed is very rude and it gives your interviewer a good understanding of your priorities. Remember, they don't want to waste their time. Maintain eye contact and sit up so that you radiate this vibe that you are serious and focused.
Know Expectations and Limitations
An interview has to be straight to the point and you have to understand what expectations and limitations there are. Read about the company's goals, objectives and vision. This will give you an idea on how to answer some of the questions that would pertain to these. Be very vigilant in your research as that would really impress your interviewers.
Before going to your interview, Business Insider states that you should always prepare copies of your resume, a pen and notepad and some questions. You never know when you'd be asked to provide those. Remember, interviews are your entry points to a successful career, so do not waste it on not being prepared. Remember the three cardinal rules.
