The interview is a crucial component in the process of obtaining gainful employment. After all, this is the moment where you meet your potential employer face to face to discuss how your personality, skills and experience will benefit the company. It is a commonly held belief that you never get a second chance to make a first impression; for that reason, the interview can reduce even the steadiest of personalities into a pile of nerves. In order to put your best foot forward, you must conquer those nerves and make a great impression by being prepared.
This four-part series of articles will cover the essential elements of a successful interview from start to finish, including pre-interview preparation, interview questions and answers, interview etiquette and closing the interview.
Preparation is Key
Now that you’ve been scheduled for an interview, you can begin the preparation process. The first point, which may seem obvious, is to absolutely ensure you know how to get to the interview so that you will arrive on time. Be sure you know exactly where the interview is beforehand, and how long it will take to get there. It is a good idea to arrive 10 minutes early, so plan your route carefully prior to departure. If you are unfamiliar with the area, or if poor weather is anticipated, allow extra time to arrive at your destination.
Dressing the Part
Consider the employer’s viewpoint when dressing for the interview. Even if the organisation is generally more casual in its dress code, it is advisable to err on the formal side rather than the informal. Do not wear clothing that suggests you are going for an evening out on the town; instead, dress conservatively. For both men and women, it is imperative to wear clean, pressed clothing that is in excellent repair and fits properly. Fragrances or colognes are best kept to a minimum, if worn at all. Of course, one mustn’t forget footwear. Shoes should be polished and in excellent condition. Finally, a neat and professional hairstyle should complete the look. Suggestions for suitable attire and hygiene are below.
For men:
- Suit (solid, dark colour)
- Long-sleeved shirt (white or coordinated with the suit)
- Belt
- Tie
- Dark socks, conservative leather shoes
- Little or no jewellery
- Neatly trimmed nails
- Portfolio or briefcase
For women:
- Suit with trousers or skirt
- Coordinated blouse
- Conservative shoes
- Limited jewellery, if any
- Stockings (neutral or dark)
- Light make-up
- Neatly trimmed nails
- Portfolio or briefcase
Some very important don’ts:
- Thong sandals or sneakers
- Low-cut blouses
- Visible undergarments
- Shorts
- Jeans
- Skirts that are too short (no more than an inch or two above the knee)
- Tight trousers
- Too much jewellery
- Too much fragrance
Things to Remember
Make sure you take any necessary documents with you to the interview. Depending on the position applied for, necessary items may include:
- a copy of your CV
- personal/professional references
- proof of education or transcripts
- a list of questions for the interviewer
- a portfolio
- a pen and notebook
Arriving to your interview on time with everything you need and looking your best will boost your confidence during a meeting with a potential employer. Once you’ve covered those elements, you are off to a great start with an excellent first impression.
In the next post, we’ll discuss the most common interview questions you will likely face during your interview.
