To take a test Click here

30
Jun

0

How to behave in an interview

Do you get doubts about how to behave in an interview once you receive the interview call?

It’s natural to feel anxious and for you to ensure that you conduct yourself well in an interview. Here are some tips on how to behave in an interview.

Before the interview:

  1. Be punctual

This is actually quite an obvious advice to give, yet it is such an important thing. Isn’t it common to see candidates dashing through the corridors on the day of their interview! Why? Simply because they are late to their (hopefully) future place of work even before they landed the job! Make sure that you-

  • Check the directions to reach the venue of interview, well in advance (After all, this is the Google maps age! So no worries, on that account!)
  • Keep enough contingency time for traffic and other unexpected delays on the road and plan accordingly
  • Prepare to reach earlier than the scheduled interview time. It is better for you to wait, rather than make the interviewer wait.
  1. Keep necessary documents handy

No doubt, you have already submitted your resume, which is why you were even called in the first place, but do keep all the documents ready. This could include your certificates, photographs, experience certificate and other relevant documents. Make sure that-

  • You have all the certificates to prove your qualifications mentioned in your resume
  • All the certificates are in good condition
  • You have copies of your latest photographs
  • You have arranged all the certificates and other documents in order and they are easy for you to retrieve
  1. Dress appropriately

This is a rather important aspect to be kept in mind. Remember to dress appropriately for the interview. Avoid dressing casually; it shows lack of seriousness. Your attire can speak a lot about you. It can go to the extent of giving an insight into your personality. Make sure that-

  • Your clothes are formal. Do not wear jeans, t shirts or other forms of casual clothing
  • Your attire is modest. Your attire includes your clothes, accessories and footwear.
  • Your clothes are not crumpled and unpleasant
  1. Overall grooming

You must remember that you are attending an interview where looks are secondary. So don’t go overboard in paying attention to that aspect. But it is very important for you to look well groomed and tidy. Make sure that-

  • Your hair is neatly combed and looks tidy
  • Your nails are neat and clean
  • There is no unpleasant body odour
  • You present a picture of hygiene and well being

During the interview:

  1. Polite Behaviour

Your behaviour and mannerisms are extremely critical during the interview. Treat other people with courtesy and respect. These are things that definitely matter! Some ground rules for behaviour-

  • Offer a firm handshake with your interviewer, if possible
  • Make eye contact
  • Have a friendly expression when your interviewer greets you
  • Remember- You should come across as someone who is great to work with!
  1. Your responses

Be bold, but not overconfident. Be audible. Some ground rules for your responses-

  • Your tone should be formal, regardless of the interviewer’s age. Use titles where necessary (Mr.; Ms., and in many cases, Sir; Ma’am…depends on circumstances)
  • Seek clarification politely if you haven’t understood a question. It is better to do this formally
  • Don’t be casual. Be precise and clear
  • Don’t sound arrogant
  • Don’t display your anxiety (even if you are, which is only too natural)
  1. Body language
  • Don’t fidget and sit in a good posture. Don’t slouch and sit still. That said, don’t be too rigid either!
  • Remember to keep your mobile phone switched off. Imagine how terrible it would be if your phone were to ring or vibrate in the middle of an interview!
  • Don’t keep glancing at your phone every now and then, even if the interviewer is preoccupied with some other task. Stay focussed
  • Maintain eye contact throughout the interview
  • I know this sounds silly, but do not chew gum!
  • Again, silly advice, but don’t bite your fingernails or make constant adjustments to your clothes or hair

Remember, honesty pays. If you really are what your resume says about you, you have nothing to fear. Stay confident!

No Comments

Reply