8 Tips for a Successful Job Interview

Facing a job interview can generate nervousness and uneasiness. For this reason, it is always advisable to be as prepared as possible, to put your ideas in order, and to consider some important aspects before the big day.

5-Minute Crafts has compiled 8 tips so you can make a good impression, and go into this process feeling more confident.

1. Practice your persuasive points

Before you go for an interview, it is important that you review and be clear about the aspects that make you the best applicant. Think of at least one concrete fact for each of your skills. For example, you can describe how these skills enabled you to solve a problem at your previous job.

At the same time, it is important to keep in mind the reasons why you want the job and be prepared to answer this question. Highlight what interests you about the position, the benefits you find valuable, and the learning you will gain.

2. Do not wear orange

According to a survey of hiring managers and human resource professionals, orange is considered to be the worst color to wear during an interview, as it is associated with an unprofessional person.

Therefore, it is advisable to go for neutral colors like gray, navy blue, or black, to which you can add some brighter shades. It is also advisable to research the dress code of the place where you are applying.

3. Get there early, but not too early

Punctuality is crucial when presenting yourself for the first time to a potential employer, as it is synonymous with professionalism. Therefore, it is advisable to arrive 5 to 10 minutes early so as not to look rushed or against the clock.

However, it is recommended to not exceed this window of time, since it can add extra pressure to the person conducting the interview, who will probably have more candidates to receive during the day.

4. Maintain eye contact

Looking people in the eye is an important part of non-verbal communication and, of course, a way to express your emotions. Because of this, recruiting experts recommend a number of things that you should consider during an interview:

• Smile with your eyes. This will make you look more relaxed and at ease.
  
• Maintain eye contact while giving an opinion or asking a question, as this will evoke more seriousness on your part.
  
• Never look away when the interviewer is speaking or asking you a question, as this may convey inattention or insecurity.

Although it may be difficult, remember that you can always practice with someone. The important thing is that your look conveys interest and self-confidence.

5. Watch your body language

Since your posture and gestures can say a lot about your personality, it is important that you handle them properly when presenting yourself to your potential new employer.

Make sure you stand up straight, avoid nervous movements with your hands and feet, and above all, smile without overdoing it. All of this will reflect security, warmth, and naturalness.

6. Use the STAR method

This method consists of establishing an orderly and concise format for answering behavioral questions, where you will have to explain how you handled a specific situation in the past.

Every time you face this type of question, order your examples in this way:

• Situation: Describe the context and the most important details.
  
• Task: Mention your responsibilities during that scenario.
  
• Action: Explain how you handled the situation.
  
• Result: Share the outcome that your actions caused.

This will allow you to deliver a much more focused response that is easier for the interviewer to understand.

7. Show active listening

Active listening allows you to pick up on the speaker’s intent and feelings. Doing this during an interview will allow you to distinguish which aspects are most important to your prospective employer while demonstrating that you are fully engaged in the conversation.

One way to reflect active listening is to paraphrase the question you’ve been asked, which will allow you to check your understanding and better think through your answer. You can also ask follow-up questions, which will show your interest and that you want to know more about the topic.

8. Avoid asking about salary or benefits

Unless the interviewer mentions it, it is advisable to not ask about salary at this stage, since this information is usually given in the job offer once the selection process is over. If the recruiter asks you about your past or current salary, mention an exact or approximate figure so that he/she can establish compatibility between you and what the company can offer you.

You should also not ask about overtime, company benefits, vacation days, or anything that suggests you think you already have the position.