Interviews can be terrifying. It’s difficult to figure out what employers are looking for during their hiring process, as not all of them specify what characteristics they deem to be the most hirable or effective. So how do you know what you need to do in order to get the job?
Here are three interview tips that will help boost your chances of getting hired no matter what job you’re applying for.
1. Show Up Early
Being early is a clear sign of respect. It shows that you value your time and that you value the time of the people around you. Arriving late is extremely inconsiderate to the people taking time to offer you potential employment opportunities, and arriving “right on time” leaves no room for hiccups or delays that are bound to happen along the way.
If you struggle to show up early, try to live by the 15-minute rule. If someone gives you a start time for an interview or event, be sure to arrive 15 minutes prior to the time you were asked to be there. This gives you the flexibility to introduce yourself to people there, take in your surroundings, and prepare yourself for whatever scenario you may encounter.
2. Be Friendly
The best thing you can do to make yourself memorable to your interviewer is being friendly. Strike intentional conversations, and show that you sincerely care about the answers you’re provided with. You don’t need to get too personal, but asking basic questions can help you to develop authentic connections with people you come across.
Body language is a crucial part of expressing friendliness. Try to physically engage in the conversations you have, pointing your body toward the person you’re talking to and making frequent eye contact. And most importantly, remember to smile. A warm smile is contagious, and it signals to others that you are a pleasant person to be around.
3. Stay Professional
At the end of the day, the purpose of an interview is to get a job offer. Professionalism is key to arriving at that end goal. It’s important to evaluate your professionalism in everything you do, whether it be your personal hygiene, presentation, language, organization, or behavior.
The best way to be professional is by modeling responsibility. Be prepared with answers, have your paperwork in order, and find opportunities to interact with employees you come across in the interview process. You want your interviewers to know that you are reliable and easy to work with.
