Job Interviews

If you've ever been on a job interview, you know that it can be a stressful process. Having a good interview involves several factors, some of which can be beyond your control. You need to get to the interview on time, answer interview questions thoroughly and honestly, and really meet the requirements of the position. There are some things you can do to improve your interview skills and make a better impression on interviewers. Master these steps and you'll be on your way to more successful interviews.

Research Employer

Researching potential employers is one of the smartest moves you can make when you are preparing for an interview. Doing research on a prospective employer allows you to accomplish two things. One is that you can learn what the company does and decide if you truly want to work there. The other is that you can prepare yourself for the interviewer's questions by understanding the industry the company operates in and the processes the company uses to perform its work. There are a number of excellent resources available if you're interviewing with a company that's widely known. You can browse newspapers like The Wall Street Journal, review Web sites, and read about companies on their Web sites or in their annual reports. If you have an interview with a small business that's not featured in these national publications, request company literature or perform your research using local and regional tools.

Practice Interview Skills

"Practice makes perfect," so practicing for your interviews can help you come across as a polished and poised professional. Common interview questions are available in many career handbooks and on the World Wide Web. Practice answering these questions so you can deliver your answers without becoming tongue-tied. You should also come up with a set of questions you want to ask your interviewer. This will show that you are interested in the company and want to know more about the job opportunity.

Make a Good First Impression

First impressions do count during interviews, so make sure you make the best one possible. Dress appropriately for your interview. For men, this usually means a suit or dress slacks with a shirt and tie. For women, this can be a skirt suit, pants suit, or other dress outfit. Wear conservative accessories and stay away from unusual jewelry, belts, handbags, and shoes. When you meet your interviewer, give him/her a firm handshake, speak clearly, and make eye contact. This will help you make a great first impression.

Follow Up

Follow up after your interview, but don't do it in a way that causes recruiters to label you as an annoyance. During your interview, you should make note of your interviewer's name and title. After the interview ends, you should send a handwritten thank-you note thanking the interview for their time. Following up on your interviews can show that you are enthusiastic and interested in the opportunity available.

Once you have gone on several interviews, you will become more confident in your skills and more comfortable meeting with recruiters. While you will probably not get a job offer from every interviewer, you will be able to learn about yourself and your industry during every interview. Use your interviews as learning opportunities and you'll be able to perfect your interview skills and land the job you'd love to have.