Secrets to Excelling in Job Interviews

Have you ever wondered why many well-qualified and extremely able candidates fail at job interviews?

The answer is simple: Interviews aren't easy to cope with, especially if you are not aware of the interview conventions and the interviewer's expectations. Imagine yourself fighting for your dream job; how immense would the pressure be?

To help you overcome this obstacle, take a look at the secrets of winning a job interview. They will help you impress prospective employers and give you the best possible chance of success.

Prepare Yourself for the Interview

Research should always be your first step. Gathering background information on employers is a crucial element in successful interview preparation. You will be asked: What do you know about the company? Why do you wish to work here?

• Know as much as possible about the company's past performance and plans to make your interview more interactive and give you the upper hand in a competitive job market.


• Review the company's website.


• Don't be afraid to contact your prospective employer to request details on the position you are interviewing for or to ask for company literature.


• Google the company to see what other information is available online.


• Practice makes things perfect; practice the interview with a friend.

First Impressions Always Count

When meeting someone for the first time, we instantaneously form opinions about various aspects of their personality. Prepare and plan that first impression long before you walk in the door. Continue that excellent impression in the days following, and that job could be yours.

• Never arrive late.


• Use positive body language and exude charm right from the start.


• Switch off your mobile phone before you step into the room.


• Look fabulous; dress sharp and make sure you look your best.


• Start the interview with a handshake; give a firm press and then some up and down movement.


• Strive to establish rapport with the interviewer right from the start.


• Always let the interviewer finish speaking before giving your response.


• Express yourself fluently with clarity and precision.

Technical Knowledge Doesn't Matter; It's All About Personality

One thing you can be sure of when you walk into an interview is that you're not there to be tested on what you know. Interviewers are anxious to find out what you're like as a person; whether you'll fit in, whether they can trust you, and how you're likely to behave at the office party.

• Speak confidently and support your answers with relevant examples from your work experience.


• Always present a positive attitude. State that you enjoy your job; that you are enthusiastic and ambitious; and that you welcome challenges.


• Don't be rude or personal about current or previous employers.


• Don't be too familiar; it's important to set a professional tone.


• Do not lie in interviews, but tailor the truth to present a positive impression of yourself.

Problem Solving is the Most Important Aspect of an Interview:

Problem-solving is the one common denominator involved in any job. The interviewer is not concerned with whether or not you can memorize several generic answers that may fit any number of questions. They want to know about you and your specific approach to problem-solving.

• Do not memorize several generic answers that may fit any number of questions.


• Research information on the company, its strategies, successes, and obstacles, and quote the information you gathered when convenient.


• Always relate your answers to the job for which you are applying.


• Use examples to support your answers.


• Convince the interviewer that your experience entitles you to the job.

General Tips

• If you face a panel interview, make sure you talk to everyone rather than directing your answers to one person.


• Never mention salary unless prompted to do so.


• Request the interviewer's business card before you leave.


• Stay calm during the interview and ask for clarification if you feel that what is asked is not clear to you.


• End the interview with a thank-you note and reiterate your interest in the position.


• After the interview, address a thank-you note to the interviewer; send it after two or three days of the interview.

The job you do often occupies half of your waking hours every day, sometimes more. It has a huge impact on the overall satisfaction you get from life, on your standard of living, and on the kind of lifestyle you can lead. It's not something that should just be left to chance; it's too important. Benefit from this advice, and you will win the job you desire!