Step up for interview

Atam Tej Arora

Landing your dream job may be easier said than done. One has to cross many hurdles to reach that final point of the getting the conformation letter. Interview is one such major barrier and in the times of job crunch, each step must be taken with caution. An impressive resume alone is not enough to keep you ahead in the race. If you want to beat other candidates in the interview, be smart and strike off these bloopers to fare well:

Be on time

Remember that your interview is not a Saturday-night party with your friends, so arriving late will only lead to loosing points. Make sure you reach at least 20 minutes in advance and inform the authorities about your arrival. Familiarise yourself with the environment, interact with other candidates and get set to be grilled. 

Be honest, do not lie 

Whether it is presenting a bogus relieving letter from your previous company or exaggerating your monthly income, remember that your prospective employer is much smarter than you think. So, if you believe that you can fabricate information and impress the employer, think again. If caught, you won't just be embarrassed, but will also be disqualified right away.

Don't criticise your previous employer

No matter how frustrated you were with your previous job or employer, do not mention anything negative or failings of your previous job or employer in your current interview. Bad mouthing your boss or your workplace will not score you any points. Instead it will only give your prospective employer reasons to believe that you don't get along with people and may have left your previous company on a bad note.

Most employers will feel hesitant hiring a person with negative attributes. It might also leave an impression of not being a team player.

Don't be overtly friendly

What if you walk in only to find out that your interviewer is an old friend or an acquaintance from your previous company! You still need to be professional. Do not to cross the thin line between developing a rapport and being overtly friendly. Watch what you say. 

Do your homework

If you thought an interview is about you alone, think again. While the interviewer is very likely to question you on your accomplishments and aspirations, it's equally important to have vital information about the company you want to work for. While going through the company's website is the easiest and quickest means to do so, learning about the recent developments in the company will certainly give you an edge over other applicants. Research is vital for a successful interview conversation. It will not only score you more points, but will also add value to your knowledge regarding the industry.

Avoid desperation

No matter how desperately you need the job, don't make it obvious. It's important to come across as an enthusiastic and responsible employee and not as a job seeker. Avoid discussing perks and salary even before you have been offered the job. Such an act is bound to leave a negative impression on your prospective employer. Assure your employers that you have the right mix of skills and qualities for the job. Do not present yourself as needy and desperate.

Body language

Your body language speaks a lot about you. Glancing at your watch, slumping in the chair, avoiding eye contact, folding your arms across the chest or fiddling with an object on the desk are a complete no-no.

Employers pay a lot of attention to your body language. Being nervous is absolutely normal in an interview, but one must take care not to make it too evident. Give out the right signals. 

Dress for the occasion

Play it safe when it comes to dressing up for your interview. Just because your interview is scheduled on a weekend doesn't mean that you can pick up a pair of jeans and a casual tee from your wardrobe. Irrespective of the nature of your job, stick to formal wear and avoid bright colours. Choose the outfit accordingly. Wearing ill-fitted and loose trousers can give employer an impression that you have a very easy-going attitude, which may just transcend into your job as well. It is important to take care of your looks besides your outfit. Dress up neatly and smartly. Avoid casuals, sporty and a shabby look.

Writer is former AGM from MECON and an academic