In an earlier blog post, we had discussed the process of writing cover letters and resumes. On that same theme, our HR Coordinator, Danny, wanted to continue moving the conversation forward, this time discussing the best practice for job interviews. Read on for his top interview tips below!

Interview Preparation

Knowledge

If you hope to have excellent job interviews, you cannot simply go to the interview without preparation. If you wish to succeed in your interview, there are some very important things you should do before hand to ensure your interview is more memorable than the competing candidates. There are two subjects you should research before stepping into your meeting.

1. Information on the company. One of the most common interview questions asked is, “Why do you want to work for this company?”. The best way to answer this question is to show off the massive amount of information you know about the company. This can include different services or products they provide. The more information you convey to the interviewer drives home the notion that you are truly passionate about working there.
2. The specific position you have applied for. If the position requires an individual proficient in Excel, then during the interview you should make it clear that you have extensive knowledge in Excel. If you spend time enhancing your knowledge of the company and position in preparation of the interview, you will appear more passionate about working there and it will seem as though you are the perfect fit for the role.

Appearance

The goal is to look professional! Dress a level higher than the position is asking for. Always bring a copy of your resume along, but make sure to carry it in a professional shoulder bag within a portfolio. Avoid large backpacks. Make sure your clothes are not wrinkled and your hair is combed and neat. In addition, ensure not to over due it with perfume or cologne. Lastly, make sure your breathe smells good! We don’t recommend walking into the interview with gum in your mouth, but encourage a mint before stepping into the interview.

Prepare your Route

One thing I have always done the day before job interviews is physically drive to the location of the interview. Have a clear understanding of where it is and how to get there. Showing up late is not a good sign – we want to make sure you are there about 15 minutes early. Mapping out your route the day before is the best way to ensure you get to your interview on time. Be sure to notice things like parking availability and traffic while scouting your route.

During the interview

Introduction

When introducing yourself to the interviewer, there are a couple of things to remember. The first being a big smile! It will feel very odd, but throughout your interview and right at the start, you need to have a great big smile on your face. Stand up, give a firm hand shake and say something polite like “Very nice to meet you.” Always remember to make eye contact when you are being spoken to. It’s also important to nod to show you are listening and understanding what is being said at all times. Address the interviewer in a professional matter i.e. Mrs, Mr, Ms. Do not refer to the interview by their first name unless they give you permission. Don’t make that assumption!

The Guts and Glory!

Now that the interview has begun, make sure to sit professionally and with good posture. Avoid things that portray nervousness like twiddling your thumbs or twirling your hair. Be mindful of the volume and tone of your voice. Speaking too softly conveys weakness, whereas being too loud comes off aggressive.

Small talk is a great way to show off your personality in a light and easy way. Be careful not to touch on sensitive issues like religion or politics. Stick strictly to light topics like weather or traffic; something that is relatable. Avoid one word answers. Interviewers are really looking to learn a lot about you during this interview, as it’s the only time to do so. With that in mind, expand on your answers, emphasis your qualifications and relate your experience to the position. Stay away from bragging or coming off as arrogant as that rubs people the wrong way in an interview setting.

In addition, do not interrupt the interviewer or monopolize the conversation as some may interpret that as impolite. Try not to be sarcastic or humorous; the point of the interview is to convey as much information about yourself to the interviewer and why you should be hired. Humour sometimes gives interviewers the impression that you are not taking the interview seriously.

Answer all questions honestly, and use the information you have researched to show how much you know about the company and why you would be a great fit for the position. Lastly, most job interviews offer you the chance to ask a question. This is where your research comes in handy. If you know the company prioritizes company culture, ask a question that relates to the company’s culture. This will give further evidence that you did research on the company ,which in turn shows how serious you are about the position.

After the Interview

The interviewer will let you know that the interview is complete by saying something along the lines of “Thank you so much for coming in.” Be sure to stand up, shake the interviewer’s hand, and thank them for their time. Do not try to put the interviewer on the spot by asking if you got the position or not. Pressuring the interviewer will more likely lead to not getting the position. Something to remember after the interview has taken place is that no matter how you feel it went, it’s impossible to know how other interviews for that position went. A way to set yourself apart from other candidates is to send a thank you letter to the interviewer. Thank them again for their time, summarize your qualifications, restate how the company benefits by adding you to the team and lastly, encourage them to consider you for the position.

I am lucky enough to have had Tigris Events offer me my dream job. I hope you were able to learn some tips that will help you find your dream job as it did with mine. If representing brands, meeting new people and marketing are passions of yours, please feel free to apply to Tigris Events at [email protected] with your resume and two photos. We are always looking to add top notch Brand Ambassadors to our Canada/US rosters!