Making a Positive Impression in Job Interviews
A. Be ready for the warm-up stage.
- Stay on your toes; even initial small talk is part of the interviewing process.
- Greet the interviewer by name, with a smile and direct eye contact.
- Offer a firm handshake if the interviewer extends a hand.
- Take a seat only after the interviewer invites you to sit.
- Listen for clues about what interviewer is trying to get you to reveal about you and your qualifications.
B. Understand the question-and-answer stage.
- Let the interviewer lead the conversation.
- Never answer a question before the interviewer finishes asking it.
- Listen carefully to the interviewer and watch for the nonverbal signals.
- Don’t limit yourself to simple yes-or-no answers; expand on the answer to show your knowledge of the company.
- If you encounter a potentially discriminatory question, decide how you want to respond before you say anything.
- When you have the opportunity, ask questions from the list you have prepared; remember that interviewers expect you to ask questions.
C. Close on a strong note.
- Watch and listen for signs that the interview is about to end.
- Quickly evaluate how well you have done and correct any misconceptions the interviewer might have.
- If you receive an offer and are not ready to decide, it’s entirely appropriate to ask for time to think about it.
- Don’t bring up salary but be prepared to discuss it if the interviewer raises the subject.
- End with a warm smile and a handshake and thank the interviewer for meeting with you.
