When called by a company to take part in the interview process, you are superior to other CV senders. This stage is your opportunity to convince the company that you are the best candidate to contribute to advancing the company. An interview is not merely a formal meeting between a company and prospective employees but a stage where your potential and character will be assessed and become a consideration for the company to accept you.
In a stunning performance, a story is presented with a convincing plot and is supported by the attractiveness of the actors; likewise, with interviews, every word and gesture plays an important role in attracting the interviewer’s attention. Of course, to give the best performance, you need to prepare for the interview very carefully. Here are some tips that you can follow to do your best during the interview session.
1. Get to know the company by looking for information
Arm yourself with information about the company. Search their website or social media to find out the company’s history, the service sector (type of business) run by the company, and the company’s vision, mission, and work culture. The information you collect is vital capital to answer interview questions confidently.
Of course, companies will choose prospective employees who share their vision, mission, and values. Take advantage of the information you get and craft answers that convince the interviewers that you are a good fit for the company. Your initial knowledge about the company also shows that you are serious about applying for a position.
2. Professional Appearance
Physical appearance plays a vital role in creating a positive first impression. For this reason, you must choose clothes that suit the company culture and reflect professionalism according to the position you are applying for. Apart from that, you also need to pay attention to your body posture, starting with eye contact, how to shake hands, and how to sit during the interview.
3. Use Effective Communication
Effective communication means how the recipient of the message can optimally receive what we convey. This is supported by many factors, such as the ability to put words together, positive body gestures and facial expressions, and clear articulation. Before the interview, you need to practice several of these factors to give the best performance during the interview.
4. Focus on Solutions and Problem Solving
It is not uncommon for some companies to provide case studies during interview sessions. You must be prepared and master the material according to the position you are applying for. When discussing case studies, respond confidently and provide concrete solutions. Interviewers can see your creativity and thinking, which can add value.
5. Manage Your Emotions
Managing stress and pressure becomes increasingly crucial in your interview process. For this reason, control yourself when you get a question that you do not expect. Being calm under pressure shows your high level of professionalism. If there is something you don’t like, say it calmly.
6. Ask questions for your consideration
It would help if you asked the interviewer several things as a consideration for accepting or rejecting the job you are applying for. Here are questions you might need to prepare:
a. Salary: It is expected to ask about salary during an interview. Make sure the net salary you receive is in line with your needs. The nominal wage also needs to be considered according to the difficulty level of the job you will undertake. If the salary offered is not suitable, you can negotiate carefully.
b. Career Path: It cannot be denied that apart from having a steady income, your goal in looking for work is to improve your skills and career path. For this reason, you need to ask about career paths in your field. It would help to consider how many years you think it might take to achieve the desired career. You have rights, too. Find out how good work performance is awarded while at the company.
c. Employment contract: Pay attention to your employment status, whether it is a contract or permanent employee. Also understand the information given about termination of employment, resignation, and all matters stated in the employment contract. Consider the penalty when resigning, whether there is an opportunity to become a permanent employee after the contract, and so on. Please take the time to fully understand the contract before you sign it.
It is important to remember that excellence depends not only on technical skills and knowledge but also on creating a positive impression and convincing the interviewer. Therefore, each interview phase is considered a selection process and a valuable moment to prove your potential and passion, bringing you closer to your desired career success. Prepare, fight diligently, and remain the best version of yourself.
