Your First Interview

[sri]

The Purpose of an Interview
To provide information about yourself that is not within your resume.
To allow the employer to evaluate your skills and personality based on the demands of the position and the organization.
To allow you to gain information about the position and the company.
To give you and the employer information to make a decision as to whether there is a mutual interest.

An Interview is something that all job-seekers both eagerly anticipate and sometimes dread (especially a first timer). But Employers expect all
applicants to be ready for the interview. Just by showing up at an interview will not get you the job you covet.
Employers expect interview candidates to be more knowledgeable and aware of their industry trends.
There is no one way that you can prepare for an interview. But there are some strategies and guidelines that you can follow to enhance your chances for success. Every interview you attend will be a learning experience, so you have to be keen and learn from each interview. Preparation is the key to getting a job.

Listed are some general guidelines in preparing for your interviews.
1. Self - Prepare for the interviewing process by asking yourself some of the whys, how’s, when’s, and where’s
First thing is relax and be yourself.
What you want to do and where you want to do it
What you have to offer (Skills, accomplishments and goals). Be well versed with what you have in your resume.
Complete the Self-Assessment for Interviewing.
2. Appearance
Dress appropriately; be neat and well groomed.
3. Research the Company and the Job - You need to be familiar with the organization: its products/services, priorities, problems, and how your skills can contribute to its goals
Internet
Friends
On site observation/Current employees
4. How to Answer and Ask the Right Questions
Always research for what the company had done before in interviews.
Anticipate key questions in your related field.
Review and practice answering the commonly asked interview questions in your related field.
Take some initiative in giving relative information if asked.
When it is your time to ask questions. When asked demonstrate interest in the company/position through your questions.
5. Effective Communication Skills
Always be alert and enthusiastic towards your interviewer.
Be clear and concise with your answers and always try giving relevant responses.
Throughout the interview show confidence & poise.
These are some other things that will help you. Good eye contact, good posture, appropriate facial expressions and hand gestures.
What you say must match your overall body language or people will pay more attention to your body language and not to what you are saying