When meeting someone for the first time, you only get one chance to make a good impression. Preparing for the interview will decide your likelihood of success while applying for a new job. Even college graduates who have successfully obtained education are finding it difficult to secure employment in the current economic environment.

A few steps can be taken to improve the likelihood of being shortlisted after the interview.

Research On the Company
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make when interviewing for new positions is failing to study the company and the role they would play in contributing to the organisation if selected. Prior to the interview, it’s critical to learn everything you can about the business. This includes the background of the business, its goods and services, its rivals, and its goals and principles.

Additionally, you should research the position that you are interviewing for. Consider how your abilities and experience compare to the demands of the position after learning more about the duties of the position. You’ll benefit from knowing this information throughout the interview.

Be Well Suited for the Job Description
You can match your skills with the employer’s needs once you have a solid idea of what they are seeking. Writing down the essential competencies, skills, etc. that the employer is seeking is a smart method to get ready for this. You should also provide a brief example of how you have implemented each skill in a previous role under each competency. Your interviewer will almost certainly ask you this question. Please do not apply for positions when your abilities don’t match what the companies are seeking for in order to save both your time and their time.

Dress Smart
It is highly advisable that when you are up for an interview that you prepare well in advance what you would be wearing. It must be something formal and not loosely paired or mixed with other outfits. Make sure your outfit is ironed and clean and that you look prim and proper on D-Day.

It is difficult even for the interviewer to be able to appreciate your skills and talent if you haven’t even made the least effort of dressing well for the interview. Dressing well helps one to associate the person with someone who is disciplined and knows what he is doing. It is in fact a great way of creating a first impression.

Make sure your clothes are ironed and cleaned, and that your shoes are spotless and glossy. Jewellery and makeup should be worn sparingly.

Keep Practicing
There are plenty of guides and sources that could help you anticipate what kind of questions can be asked depending on the role that you are applying for. It is therefore imperative that you have a prepared list of what to expect and then prepare accordingly.

Don’t take this opportunity for granted and appear for an interview unprepared. Another great tip is to have a friend or a family member help you by being the interviewer and asking you difficult questions.

This will build up your confidence and give you time to prepare your introduction in moments where you are caught up in the middle of tough questions.

Know Your Route
Be sure to leave your house in a timely fashion if your interview is scheduled for a time when traffic is at its worst. Being late for an interview due to traffic congestion or an accident is stressful. Plan your arrival ten minutes before the interview as a general guideline. Smartphone GPS is accurate, but not perfect.



If you are unfamiliar with the area, you should use Google Maps or look up directions. Ask for instructions and note them down if the interview location is a little difficult to reach during your pre-interview talk with your future employer.

Tips: Dos and Don’ts
Do not mumble or ramble
When you are asked something you are unfamiliar with, avoid mumbling answers or going off-topic and rambling. Your answers are meant to be crisp and straightforward.

Be practical with your examples
More than often, it is preferred that while answering questions, you include your own examples out of your personal experience.

This portrays that you have dealt with similar situations in the past and that gives you an edge compared to the other interviewees as experience plays a big role.

Ask Questions
It is a myth that candidates must refrain from asking questions. It is good, to be frank, and ask questions about your role and the work that would be assigned to you.

This shows how serious you are about your job, it gives you better clarity on what the organisation expects of you and gives you a chance to show the interviewer that you have done your research on the company.

Don’t Pretend
It is always best not to pretend when you don’t have the answers to certain questions asked. In fact, some people appreciate your honesty and hence, when you don’t have an answer, simply apologise for not having the information instead of making up stories and going off tangent.

Conclusion
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but you must have confidence if you want to succeed in interview. Preparing for the interview and being prepared with your answers in advance is the best way to achieve this.

Some people experience anxiety that they lose their words in the middle of their interview. This is why it’s crucial to prepare your responses in advance and have a plan of what you want to cover. Additionally, you need to be aware of any potential interview questions.

Read a lot and be well informed, be polite and courteous and well dressed and you are ready to set a beautiful first impression.

Source links - HOW TO CRACK AN INTERVIEW-TIPS