What are Some Job Interview Tips?

If you're looking for a new job, some sound job interview tips may help you stand out among other candidates. One of the most important job interview tips is to stay calm and project confidence, even if you are nervous. Remember that the interviewer is just another person and look him in the eye. Don't fidget or turn away when he asks you questions; resist the urge to examine your shoes. If you don't give eye contact, you may appear as if you have something to hide or are not being honest.

Also important among job interview tips is how you dress. Show up in clean, neat clothing; choose an outfit that is appropriate for the type of job you're going for. For example, if you're going for a business-executive position, you want to wear a suit. On the other hand, if you're interviewing for a less-formal type of position, it may be okay to wear something a bit more casual, such as a pair of pants or skirt and a neat shirt. In most cases, however, you don't want to show up in a pair of jeans and a T-shirt; things like sandals, sneakers, and baseball caps are usually out as well.

Practicing your answers to typical interviewer questions is one of the most helpful job interview tips. You will likely be asked about your former job and why you left it or are leaving it. You'll probably be asked what you liked and disliked about your job as well as whether or not your expectations were met. You'll likely also be asked what you're looking for in a new job and why you feel you will be an asset to the company with which you are interviewing. Practice your answers in front of a mirror, so you can observe your body language as you speak.; if you notice body language that makes you appear anything less than confident, such as twitching, fidgeting, or looking to the side, work on eliminating it before your interview.

When you are answering questions, one of the most crucial job interview tips is to listen to the entire question before you give your answer. Never assume that you know what the interviewer is going to ask, and don't interrupt her. If you forget the question or do not understand it, don't be afraid to say so. It's better to ask for clarification than to give a wrong or unrelated answer. If you can, try to relate your answers to something you know about the company; for example, if you know the company is looking for a person with certain accomplishments, make sure you include your related accomplishments in your answers.

Perhaps the most important of all job interview tips is to be on time. Nothing turns a potential employer off more than a prospective employee that shows up late for a job interview. If you cannot be on time for the interview, prospective employers reason that you are highly unlikely to be reliable once you're hired. For good measure, show up a few minutes early and let employers know that you're someone they can count on.