It's Time To Send Your Interviewing Skills To Rehab

Graduating can be terrifying especially when you haven’t landed a job. If you have done countless interviews and still haven’t received a job offer, perhaps it’s time to send your interview skills to rehab and grab some new habits. Whether this is your first job post college or your second shot at grabbing that dream position after “putting in your year at that stepping-stone company,” these pointers below can ease the pain.

1. Quit Whining: Chances are you will always be asked the question, “What did you enjoy / not enjoy at your last job?” Maybe your last job was an internship in college where all you did was file papers or perhaps you’re leaving your last job because your boss has more issues than Vogue – whatever the case keep your whiny complaints to yourself. Happily let them know everything you enjoyed while keeping what you didn’t enjoy to a bare minimum (i.e., “I enjoyed the atmosphere, however I felt I wasn’t challenged enough.”).

2. Showoff: Know the company you’re interviewing with forwards and backwards. Yes, this means stalking the person whom you’re interviewing with via LinkedIn, Twitter, Google and so forth, and then using that knowledge. When you are asked questions about how you would react to general situations, although a general answer may work an answer geared towards that company may be the point that lands you a second interview. Ask thought-provoking questions about the company like, “In my research I saw your revenue last year was 5.2 million, as the president, what are you key marketing goals to increase this revenue within the next 3 years?”

3. Watch Your Body Language: Controlling your body language can be the most complicated of task during nerve-racking situations. Remain poised and take a breather once in a while. If you’re offered something to drink, I would suggest taking them up on the water offer because voice cracking shows nervousness and if you’re ever stuck on a question then taking a sip can delay them picking up on the fact you need more time to think. Make eye contact and be sure to stand up and shake hands should someone additional be added to your interview. Wearing comfortable, suitable clothing and being prepared can boost confidence and drive better body language.

4. Be Cordial To All: Although you may never interview with the secretary, you should still be very cordial to her and strike up a small, sincere conversation while you wait for your interviewer to show. Often times whomever interviews you will ask the opinions of everyone you meet – including the doorman. This will also help with your followup as you keep in mind that most of the people within companies have been taught they are doorkeepers for important decisions makers; so make nice.

5. Recap: At the end of the interview be sure to thank each person you spoke with for their time, and if you’re interested in the position let them know. Recap some of the high points of the interview to demonstrate why you would be an excellent fit for the position. If you have had thoughts of new plans you would implement you should briefly share these. It is also very important to make sure you know next steps and the best way to continue communication with the company – this will also let you the best way to deliver your thank you message.