Developing Interview Skills

Actions during the interview

Arrive on time or, better yet, a few minutes early. You don't want to start off an interview by being late. Introduce yourself to everyone in the room. Tell each person your name, and shake everyone's hand. Try to remember everyone's name. Be yourself and try to relax. You may be nervous, but remember that an interview is a time for you and the employer to get to know each other.

At the end of the interview, you should:

Ask when you will hear from them about the job. This shows your lasting interest and dedication to the position. Thank the interviewers for their time. This shows that you recognize the employer's busy schedule and the time made for you to participate in the interview. Shake hands with each interviewer. This shows respect and also highlights your self-confidence. Walk away in a professional manner. No matter if the interview was a complete success or total failure, don't let those emotions show on your way out.

Reference

Person who can tell the interviewer about your character and abilities.

Communicating Effectively

Employers want to hire a person who can communicate effectively and professionally. Be sure you hone your verbal and nonverbal communication skills before you interview for a job. Practice answering questions in front of a mirror, or have a friend ask you questions and critique your communication skills after you answer.

Nonverbal Communication Skills

Make eye contact with your interviewers. Use good posture. Sit up straight and don't lean on the arms of the chair of the table. Try to avoid nervous gestures, such as drumming your fingers, tapping your feet, or biting your nails. also do not use unprofessional gestures, thumbs-up or finger-guns

Interview attire

Most important, you need to be neatly groomed. Make sure you are clean and your hair is combed. Avoid wearing any fragrances or perfume, and don't wear large pieces of jewelry. You don't need to wear a suit and tie, but you shouldn't wear jeans or shorts, either. Find an outfit that is "business casual": a pair of slacks and a button-down shirt or, for women, a modest skirt and shirt. Choose a pair of dress shoes that are comfortable but not worn. Avoid wearing tennis shoes, sandals, or shoes with very high heels. Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle free.

Verbal Communications Skills

Speak clearly and loud enough for the interviewers to hear, but don't talk too loudly or shout. Answer the questions that are asked. Do not ramble and talk about other topics. Try not to fumble for an answer or fill silences with "um" or "uh." Practice answering questions without pausing. Use only proper English and grammar and avoid slang.

Following up

The main task of the follow-up is sending a thank you letter to your interviewer. You can send a thank you letter either by email or by handwritten letter, but it's vital that you send it within two days of the interview. Be sure you use only the interviewer's business address or email, not the person's personal email. Keep your letter short and the tone of the letter courteous and professional. Thank the interviewer for taking the time to interview you. Make sure your email is grammatically correct.