Self Presentation

Interviewing is a process. When seriously looking for a job, apply to at least three jobs every day and schedule two or three interviews a week. This sounds exorbitant; however, having strenuous goals produces better results. An interview implies you meet qualifications; however, a person must go on several job interviews before getting hired.

The worst thing to do is apply for a job, wait to get the interview and then wait for the response. It may take a long time to go through the whole process. Occasionally someone is hired the same day. Often there is a reason, such as: high turn-over or a need to hire several people at one time. This means they several people quit or several people will be laid-off after the job is complete. Having options is its own reward.

Part of the face-to-face interview is presenting someone who wants the job, can do the job and will show up on time. There are four main parts to the interview: introduction, job definition, questions and saying goodbye. Interviewers worry about these things, so make the right impression during these steps.

Body language is amazingly important. Avoid fidgeting. Dress professionally. Laying back in a chair means you are relaxed. Leaning forward means you are anxious. Sitting up straight is always the best; however, if you must lean, lean forward. People understand feeling anxious during an interview, and do not understand someone who is completely disinterested. "Why go to the interview when they don't want the job?"

Eye-contact is important. It helps people relate and builds trust. You don't have to stare down the interviewer; however, make eye-contact several times during the interview. The most appropriate time to make eye-contact is when the interviewer asks questions, greets you and says goodbye. Try to make solid eye-contact. (Also greet and say goodbye to everyone there; including, the secretary. This might be your next workplace. Show everyone respect.)

During an interview the interviewer will explain the job definition. They want responses from you. They want a response whether you are smiling, nodding, looking at the deep fryer (they are talking about) or grimacing. If you look worried, they will ask why. Have an answer, because they are concerned the job is disagreeable or confusing. You don't have to say, "I have a question." Answer the question honestly. Honesty is appreciated most of the time.

Question and answer part of the interview is hazardous. They start getting personal when asking questions like, "What are your strengths;" "What are your weaknesses;" "What were your responsibilities at you last job," and "How do you feel those skills would help you perform this job?" These questions are designed to gain insight into a person's psyche. However, they want prepared answers. No matter how prepared you are they will throw in something new.

Relax as much as possible. You may feel like responding quickly. Interviewers are accustom to interviewing people applying for the job; therefore, account for quirky behaviors of ideal candidates, so take your time and be honest. However, taking too long to answer a question indicates you are trying to come up with a better sounding answer. If they ask, "When can you start working here?" It shouldn't take long to think through your schedule and come up with a day. However, this is a trick question. They want to hear, "Right now if possible."

When answering questions related to weaknesses, make the weakness sound like strengths. For example, "I tend to focus on details." This could be a weakness; however, it is also strength. They may want to know how you deal with your weaknesses. "After I have the job down, it doesn't take long to increase my speed."

Avoid the word "try" as much as possible. Make your answers definite. Don't try to make your answers definite.

Look at the list of your employment history before going to an interview. List your responsibilities at the job. Think of what you learned. If you worked on a team, list out the positive and negative lessons you gained from teamwork. If you with a specific type of equipment, explain how it helped and what you learned. Now you are prepared to tell stories that give the interviewer a greater insight to your skills.

Regardless of how you feel about the interview, do not slump until safely out-of-sight. It may seem easy to say goodbye; however, being anxious, awkward or cocky makes a bad impression. Make solid eye-contact and say, "I'll talk to you later." Do not let emotional responses ruin an excellent interview.

The interview defines whether you will get hired or a letter in the mail. How an applicant presents themselves is a crucial part of the hiring process. Body language and eye-contact are important aspects throughout the entire process. Remember to relax, while portraying confidence even if it is your first interview.

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