How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Preparing for a job interview no matter how competent you think you are is very important. Fail to prepare and prepare to fail! Follow these tips to successfully prepare for a job interview and land yourself a great job. Whether your applying for call centre vacancies or applying for jobs in the building industry these interview preparation tips will help you no matter what job your looking to get.

Dress to Impress
First impressions count. Make sure you dress to impress. Don't mistake this for putting on your favourite going out outfit, as this may not always be appropriate. Dress professionally. Be sure you are clean and smell fresh and your breath is fresh too. Nobody likes a smelly employee or colleague! If you are female, where minimal makeup and style your hair quite simply. Only bend these rules if the job you're applying for requires you to be a bit unique, such as a job in a clothes shop or a job in fashion. Check with the company in advance what you are expected to wear.

Research the Company
You must research the company when applying for a job. You should know a lot about the company you are going to for an interview. The company may ask you what you know about them, and it is always impressive if you know a fair bit. This strokes their ego. If the employer doesn't ask you a question such as this, you could try and slip something you do know in during the interview either in one of your answers or when they ask you if you have any questions.

Interviewing Technique
Improve your interviewing technique, as saying the wrong thing could mean it's over before it's started. Know what's on your CV, as there could be questions related to it. Why are you interested in that company? What makes you perfect for that role? In the interview try to stay calm and focused, as you are making a lasting impression. Practising with a friend beforehand can help you improve. Think before you speak, as it is better to do this than stutter and stumble over your words. Be sure to really listen to what the interviewer is asking, and answer appropriately.

Phone Interviews
If you are job searching, there's always the possibility of a phone interview. This is where the employer will call you at a moments notice and what to know a bit about you before inviting you to a face to face interview. Keep your CV near the phone, make a short list of your accomplishments ready and have a pen and paper for taking notes. Having these things near the phone will be sure you won't get caught off guard. Make sure you are in a place with no screaming kids or barking dogs so you don't get distracted! If the time of the call isn't appropriate ask if you could talk another time and tell them when you are available.

Article Prepared by @jboss_nwankwo