Dear Candidate

Here is a small write up that could help you move from good to great.

Interview – Quality Time:

The time that you spend with the client at the Interview, needs to be quality time. This is an opportunity for you to highlight your positive points- your strengths.  The client is looking for the right skill set, attitude, aptitude and values that match with the organization.

You must make a positive impression on the client.

Ensure you know the basics:

• Client Name
• Date and time of the interview
• Position being interviewed for
• Role and Job Description
• The exact location of the company / Route Map
• Contact person and telephone number
• The name of the interviewer, his designation / panel size
• Website of the company
• Company’s Profile and Corporate culture
• Salary range as indicated by the client
• Carry a copy of your CV, 2 photographs and copies of your educational certificates and passport.
• Pay attention to you dress code and grooming

Homework 

You must do sufficient research on the company. Also ensure that you do not misrepresent any of the factual data including:

• Period of service
• Current remuneration
• Current position and Job description
• Previous employment data
• Family background
• Education background
• References
• Training

Questions to expect at the interview 

• Reason for leaving the present job
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• A valid explanation if there have been too many changes in jobs / industry
• Questions based on the job / specialization
• Any initiative undertaken in a previous job that has made a significant positive impact
• Current performance and quantifying it
• Career plans and where you see yourself in the next 5-7 years
• What do you know about the company you are seeking a job with?
• Personal likes / dislikes / hobbies / willingness to relocate
• Current salary and expected salary
• References from ex–employers
• Family details

Pitfalls to avoid during an interview 

• Do not be late for an interview. If the circumstances are beyond your control ensure the consultant / client is informed well in advance
• Avoid a limp handshake
• Be conscious of your posture / body language (Don’t keep hands crossed across chest)
• Do maintain eye-contact
• Avoid any strong regional accents / colloquial usages while talking
• Avoid being either over aggressive or too meek at the interview
• Avoid usage of words / phrases you are not sure about
• Do not over emphasize on the remuneration / monetary benefits you are looking for
• Do not bad-mouth previous employer/s
• Be honest about the reasons for changing previous job/s
• Be forthright if you do not have enough knowledge about a particular question asked
• Do not overstate your past achievements
• Do not go for the interview without doing basic homework on the company / job / role / subject
• Do not overstate current salary
• Be positive and alert at all time during the interview
• Ask intelligent / relevant questions when the interviewer gives you a chance to learn more about the company.
• Do not be rude or impatient if the client asks probing questions- he may be checking your level of tolerance

Closing the interview 

• Avoid saying that you need to consult parents / friends etc to take a decision, rather ask for time to give a response
• Do not show discouragement if you feel the interview has not been positive
• Thank the interviewer for the time and opportunity provided
• Be cheerful and positive and show your eagerness to join the organization