4 First Interview Tips for Getting the Job That You Want

You have completed your professional training. You have made a job application and received a positive response.

The only thing standing between you and the job that you want? An interview!

Employers use job interviews to put a face behind your name and evaluate your personality and suitability to the job. Yet, acing an interview isn’t an easy task. Never mind that this is your first interview.

How do you make the most of the interview and impress your interviewers? This is where we come in!

Read on for first interview tips that will mold you into an irresistible candidate for the job.

1. Embrace the Fact That First Impressions Matter

In interviews, as in pretty much everywhere life, first impressions matter. Within 90 seconds of an interview, most bosses have already made the decision on whether they’ll hire an interviewee.

90 seconds isn’t even enough time for you to flesh out your vision and why you think you deserve the job. So, what is it that employers are looking for this quickly?

First impressions!

Although you have little control over what impression another person makes of you, doing the best you can to make a lasting first impression goes a long way.

Do your research and try to establish what the employer looks for in a potential employee. What’s their preferred dress code? Do they have a preference for specific hairstyles?

When you do your best to fit the employer’s profile of an ideal employee, there’s a good chance you’ll leave a good first impression.

Oh, and don’t show up late!

2. Know What’s in Your Resume

Before sending a job application, you spent a considerable amount on your resume. Employers will use it to determine whether to move you to the next step in the hiring process.

During the interview, the employer will have your resume and they’ll likely ask you questions if there’s something that needs clarification.

Now, can you imagine being in a situation where you’re being asked a question in reference to what’s on your resume and you have no clue what the interview is talking about? Or maybe you give an answer that’s inconsistent with what’s in your resume.

It’s an awkward situation, but it can also indicate that you might have falsified your resume. Even if you’re honest, it’s not a good sign when you can’t correctly recall what’s on your resume.

As such, ensure you know what’s on your resume like you know the back of your hand. This is especially important if you hire a resume writer to work on it. Ensure you’re aware of what they left out.

3. Ask Questions

In an interview, you’ll be asked many questions. But your job isn’t to just give the answers. You also need to ask the right questions where appropriate.

4. Post-Interview Etiquette

Once the interview ends, it’s easy to forget about it while you hope for the best. There’s nothing wrong with this, but some employers are mindful of post-interview etiquette. So, sending a thank you email after an interview is in order.

Put These First Interview Tips to Use

To get the job you want, you must successfully tackle the interview hurdle. Your first interview will test your nerves, but with these first interview tips, you’ll impress your interviewers.

All the best and keep reading our blog for more job tips and insights.