Face-to-face interview are considered as the scariest thing for most of job applicants. It is considered a crucial selection phase and full of mystery. No matter how great the CV is, if the applicants cannot present themselves properly during the interview, the possibility of passing the recruitment process is still small.
Brian Epstein, who is also the owner of the company Brian Epstein Career Consultant Associates, has the secret of success in facing job interviews. Here are 5 tips on how to nail it!
1. Know what company you are going to
In addition to preparing your resume and portfolio as well as possible, one thing that you should also prepare is knowledge of the company. You don’t want to get nervous at the beginning of the interview just because the interviewer asks you about the company and you do not know the answer.
If you already have information about who will interview you, it's good to find out more about the interviewer's profile. Basically when building a relationship, preparing knowledge about the ins and outs of the person who will be interviewing can really help you. Try to dig up information about the person. Both through social media, until Google search engine. With the availability of such information, you can also add a light chat material, so you can build a connection with it. But remember, do not ask too much because it can make the interviewer uncomfortable.
2. First impression makes a good impression
In addition to knowledge, appearance is also an important point. It can’t be denied that the first thing you will show is physical appearance and outfit. Many people feel confused while choosing an outfit for a job interview. So what is the best outfit you can use during the interview?
According to Epstein, the clothes you wear will affect one's thinking. So if you're going for interviews in a rigid corporate office, use formal clothing with neutral colors. However, if you are going to interview in offices that are engaged in the creative industry, then avoid wearing such clothes.
3. Watch your words!
Often hear the words ‘What a small world’? If so, you should notice the choice of words and information that you disclose during your interview. One of the discussions you should avoid is a complaint about your boss at a previous workplace. It may be that the person interviewing you knows your former boss, or even if she or he do not know, you will be labeled as someone who complains and possibly leaked the company's issues. If that happen, you will have lost your chance to work in the office.
4. Being critical will add your points
In addition to the words, the attitude during the interview will be part of the assessment. The company certainly prefers someone with high enthusiasm. Usually, it can be shown when the prospective employee can answer questions with a good and consistent answer and provide a statement that contains real information that is not just boasting. When answering these questions, you should also be assured but not tense.
Epstein explains that a company will certainly choose a candidate with a broad knowledge, can express opinions well, and critically. Much reading and looking for references. If you still lack confidence, practice as often as possible with friends or relatives. That way can help you to have a quality statement.
5. Always be one step forward
Some companies will be open about salary and additional bonuses such as overtime bonuses to prospective employees, because actually a professional needs to know the price to be given for his work. However, there are some companies that want to see your performance first before talking about salary beyond basic salary or bonus. If you directly ask about the salary and benefits gained during the interview, it will likely give you a negative impression. The reason, the company will think that you are more interested in money than how you can work well.
Epstein adds that the right time to ask about pay and benefits is when you feel confident the company will hire you. But, you have to remember and know that there will be consequences such as probation. During probation, the company may not bear the subject of health funds and other benefits.
