LAST MINUTE INTERVIEW TIPS

It has been observed that a majority of applicants experience anxiety, self doubt and miscellaneous emotions which might cloud their minds. It is a normal phenomena and can be easily overcome by following some basic tips. In this article, we list some essential last minute interview tips to help you ace the interview and get your dream job!

1) DRESS THE PART

Our increasingly casual culture has made us somewhat take things for granted. However, it is essential that you dress appropriately and show up clean, tidy and smart. Remember that first impressions are too important to be ignored and your dress code plays an integral role in that aspect.

2) KNOW ABOUT THE JOB ROLE

Take some time to properly research and understand the job role you are applying for. If you have come across the job through advertisement or any third party, be sure to know more and clear your doubts via the recruiter before the interview. You will surely have questions which will gauge your understanding of the job profile and inability in answering them is a big red flag.

3) REVIEW THE COMPANY

The first and foremost step before attending the interview should be to research the organisation you will be working for. Go through their company website, social media, research on their competitors, challenges and future goals. This will prepare you for one of the most common questions asked -

What do you know about our company?

4) SHARE STORIES OR PERSONAL ACCOUNTS

Don’t hesitate to share relevant stories or personal accounts in answer to the questions. For instance, when asked whether you are ambitious or not, a poor answer can be a mere “YES”. A better answer can be a personal experience in your past where you showed ambition and eventually tasted success. 

5) MAKE A LIST OF QUESTIONS YOU’LL ASK

You will definitely be asked the customary, “Do you have any questions?”. Hence make sure to know what you will ask beforehand to avoid freezing at the moment. The interview is a two way process. The interviewer is trying to decide whether you are perfect for the role and simultaneously you must see if the job profile and the organization will suit you or not. Your questions will help you in this regard.

6) SHOW SMART COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Engage in effective verbal and non verbal communication with the interviewers. It’ll showcase your confidence and bear brownie points. Freshers often tend to talk or ask questions to the recruiter but that should never be the case. Listen to them with full focus, maintain a positive demeanor, stay focused and engage in the conversation. Maintain eye contact, offer a soft smile occasionally and extend a firm handshake.

7) PREPARE WELL FOR THE “TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF” QUESTION

The first question of a typical interview often tends to be the classic, 

“Tell me about yourself”.

Make sure that you have a well rehearsed response for this question. This question is meant to calm your nerves and make you comfortable. Since it’s something you know, answering this will set the tone of the rest of the interview.

8) LET YOUR PERSONALITY OUT

Don’t keep yourself so restrained as you come across as reserved. The interviewers would like to feel your personality as it helps them to decide whether they would like to work with you or not. So, relax a little and let things flow their due course.

9) GATHER ALL THE RELEVANT DOCUMENTS AND THINGS

Though it might sound stupid, always double check that you have all relevant document and things with you before appearing in the interview. Multiple printed copies of your resume, offer letter, academic documents, notebooks and pens are some of the essential stuff that you would need in the interview. Keep all these at one specified place to avoid panicking.

10) GO THROUGH COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A simple google search or contacting relevant people will give you an idea of the commonly asked questions for the particular job role. Make sure you have an idea of the potential topics which will be discussed in the interview.

11) KNOW WHAT TO DO IN CASE YOU DON’T KNOW THE ANSWER

Take your time while answering a question you’re unsure about. Try to think out loud while reaching the solution as it demonstrates your thought process to the panel. If unsuccessful, admit that you’re unable to answer the question and acknowledge the importance of the question. Lastly, offer to come back to the question later wherein the panel can guide you to the answer.

12) MAINTAIN PUNCTUALITY

Try to reach the interview center at least half an hour before the interview. Half an hour head-start gives you some time to cool your nerves and avoid the dreadful panic of being late.

13) HAVE AN EXIT STRATEGY

When the interview is almost over, be ready with your exit strategy. This often includes a, “Do you have anything else?” opportunity for your final pitch. You might even ask, “When can I expect to hear back from you?” .Be sure to reiterate your interest in the job before leaving.

14) FOLLOW UP

Make sure to follow up with a Thank You mail to extend your gratitude for being given the opportunity. Once you get the reply, be it positive or negative, respond back. If unsuccessful, make it a point to get their feedback on your shortcomings. This will surely help you in the future.

15) BE POSITIVE

This might be the most important tip of all. Always maintain a positive approach. Don’t be hard on yourself, focus on being productive and never stop learning. A positive approach is half the battle won:)

CONCLUSION

Trust on your abilities and relax a little. It’s okay to be nervous and anxious but don’t let it dictate your performance. Remember that all the applicants are going through the same range of emotions and it’s perfectly normal. Prepare, practice, and show up on time, and you'll do great! The more you interview, the better you get. So go out there and get started with acing all the interviews! Best of Luck!