Monday, March 2, 2009

Tips to handle Interviews

Before the interview
• Get to the interview location at least 30 minutes prior to the given time.

• Carry extra copies of your updated resumé.

• Be polite to the receptionist. His/Her feedback about you may be considered during your evaluation.

• Acquaint yourself with the names of the interviewers and be prepared to use them while interacting with them or greeting them.

• Review your notes while waiting.

• Breathe deeply and relax.

• Enter the room courteously with a smile, but without being obsequious.

• Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake.

• Accept that you will be nervous but work out ways of not letting it interfere with your performance.


During the interview

• Be calm, confident, professional and determined.

• Slow down your speech, lower your voice and maintain eye contact with the interviewer during the interview.

• Direct your answers to the entire panel of interviewers.

• Avoid speaking your own views.

• Pitch answers at a level that would be technically appropriate to your interviewing panel.

• Demonstrate integrity by not giving away confidential information about your previous employer.

• Be a good listener and show patience during any pauses between questions.

• Always be honest.

• If you get the time or opportunity, ask questions about the employer in the order of their priority.

• Thank the panel as you leave.