5 Small Interviewing Tips That Pay Off Big-Time
It can be daunting to prepare for a job interview. With a laundry list of important items to remember, it can be easy to forget about the basics.
Before getting into the minute details of the next job interview, I invite online students pursuing college degrees (and new jobs) to think about the fundamentals. What qualities are hiring managers looking for in an employee?
The fundamentals of interviewing for a job can become easily overshadowed because they aren't always top of mind. Here are five little reminders that will pay off big-time during your next job interview:
1. Sit up straight.
Posture is something that job seekers may not think about during an interview, but it makes a difference. Sitting up straight in your chair exudes a sense of confidence that should translate well with the interviewer. While you're sitting up straight, don't forget to ...
2. ... Maintain a positive attitude.
Sure, hiring managers are looking for well-qualified applicants, but exhibiting a positive attitude in addition to those qualifications vaults promising prospects ahead of the competition. Don't take the positivity overboard (like Jack Nicholson as Joker in the original Batman), but an optimistic approach makes it easier for the interviewer to imagine you in the role for which you're applying.
3. Offer a firm (but not fierce) handshake.
When you meet the interviewer (and at the conclusion of the interview), offer him or her a firm handshake. On a scale of 1 to 10, where 10 is the firmest handshake, shoot for about a 7. You don't want to hurt the interviewer with a rugged handshake, but you also don't want to appear too timid with a weak one. Aim for something in between.
4. Dry-clean your clothes.
Just because you wear formal clothes doesn't mean the interviewer will be impressed. If it looks like the clothes came out of the dryer with wrinkles, it might hurt your overall presentation. Break out the iron or make a trip to the dry-cleaners.
5. Don't flaunt too much bling.
Matching earrings, a bracelet or a necklace can enhance the professional appearance of a woman's outfit; ditto for a watch for men's outfits. Just don't take it too far. You don't want to be walking from the waiting room to the interviewing room with your jewelry clanging away. This can be distracting to the interviewer.
Remembering these small things can pay big dividends in the process of interviewing and being hired. Do you have any other small secrets that can pay off in a big way? List them in the comments section below.
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About the author: Eric Sorrentino joined Grantham University as Social Media Manager in October 2011. Prior to that, he blogged about Big 12 Conference athletics for KUsports.com and was a sports copy editor for the Lawrence Journal-World. Eric received his bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Kansas.