Impressive Interviews
Presented by Kelly Services

Powerful Beginnings
Be alert when you walk into the interviewer's office. Walk smartly. Do not touch anything on the interviewer's desk. Smile warmly at the interviewer and tell him or her that you are happy to meet him/her. Sit comfortably but do not slouch or rest your head on your hands. Some interviewers start by asking you questions not related to the interview, this process is called an 'ice-breaker'. It is intended to make you feel comfortable. Answer the questions with ease. A common mistake that the job applicants make has to do with the question, "How are you?" This is just intended as an opener. Sometimes interviewees answer too honestly. Some job applicants tell their interviewer that they are not well. This only prompts the interviewer to ask why they are not feeling well. It starts the interview on a negative note. There is nothing more "off putting" than beginning an interview with questions relating to the applicant's ailment. Also most interviewers are more alert at the beginning of the interview. Just say "Fine, thank you" or "Very well, thank you". Some interviewees are so nervous that they are not even aware when the interviewer cracks a joke. Be aware of your handshake - dead fish handshakes make you look weak.

Empty Spaces
Some interviewees get very nervous when there is a pause. Enjoy it, you do not have to fill every gap. Let the interviewer lead you. It's okay to be silent during pauses.

Be Honest
It's okay to admit that you do not have all the answers. Admit it if you do not know how to answer a question. Answer each question concisely.

Any Questions?

Sometimes interviewers want to know if you have any questions. Do not ask questions that are obvious, for example, about working hours unless you are applying for a shift job or a position that requires you to work specific hours. The first question some applicants ask relate to benefits and perks. This tends to give the impression to the interviewer that the applicant is materialistic and motivated by monetary rewards alone. Instead ask questions about the position and the organization, for example, "What are the important qualities that you require your employees to have?" "What do I need to do in order to hit my targets?" What are your expectations of me?"

Stay Alert to your Facial Expressions
Although you cannot see your face, the interviewer will be looking at your face for clues. For example, if you like what he or she is saying to you. Often interviewees give themselves away by their facial reactions. Practice in front of a mirror and watch your responses and the faces you make. Poker players know this trick, they learn not to show their reactions to the cards they deal sp that the other players do not know where they are at. Project a pleasant disposition and be alert.

Speak with Conviction
You cannot fake this part of the interview, as most interviewers are able to sense if an applicant is insincere. Say the things you mean, be congruent. Some interviewees contradict themselves. They say they want to build a career with the employer's company and then in the same breath say that the job they are applying for is a stepping-stone. Prospective employers want to know what is unique about you and why they should hire you over someone else but they may not ask you this question in a direct manner. Therefore it is important for you to think about what the interviewer wants to know before you answer the question. For example, what are your strengths and weaknesses?

 

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