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Interviews and In-Laws

In life there are many instances that you want to present yourself as a competent, intelligent, and well-rounded person. Let’s face it we are not always perfect, however, there are two important times in your life that you must strive to be the best you can be: job interviewing, and meeting the in-laws for the first time. These seemingly opposite experiences actually have a lot in common.

Dress to Impress:
When meeting your in laws for the first time you want to make a good impression, so this means looking respectful. A job interview in similar in this way because the first thing an interviewer will notice about you is if you are dressed appropriately. In both circumstances you want to look nice, but you also want to be comfortable and still be yourself. When interviewing make sure your clothes fit the culture of where you’re applying. For example, if you are applying for a fun creative firm, dress the part, don’t wear a stuffy black suite with a white button up blouse. While on the other hand, if you are applying to a more conservative corporate business firm, then maybe that black suit is the best choice.

Posture & Poise:
In both circumstances it is important to focus on your non-verbal behavior. This means being mindful of facial expressions, hand gestures, and posture. Smile, sit up straight, and maintain eye contact. In both instances the person you are wanting to impress is making sure you are a good fit, whether that means a good fit for their son/daughter, or the job position you are seeking. Non-verbals often reveal the truth about how you feel more than verbal behavior because non-verbals are more difficult to control. Even though you may not like something about what the interviewer says, makes sure that negative expression does not accidentally slip across your face.

Be Grateful:
Even though this may not be your dream job, or those in-laws are not your favorite people in the world, you still need to be grateful of their time. Being grateful in an interview is crucial! Show that you want to be there, and thank them when you shake their hand and walk out the door. It is also important that you follow up after the interview and send them a thank you note, or email, saying how grateful you are for their time, and for getting to know them and the company better.

For more interviewing tips, visit our website.

Self Improvement Month

This month is national Self Improvement Month, which means it is the perfect time to reevaluate your interview habits. Interviews can be an especially daunting part of the job hunting process. Here are some tips that will make your interview less nerve wracking!

Do Your Research

Research will help you look more prepared and interested in the opportunity. Start by researching general interview questions that you are likely to be asked. Then research the company that has asked you to interview. Knowing information about the company shows you care about this job and the success of this company. This can also help you to gauge the company culture to decide what is best to wear to the interview. Knowing what is appropriate to wear can show that you are a good fit with the other employees. If you are still unsure as to what to wear to the interview, it might be worthwhile to call the office where your interview will take place. Go to sleep a little early so that you are well rested for the interview.

At The Interview

Go to your interview alone, do not take your children or any friends. Bring a copy of your resume to the interview and possibly a notepad in case you want to write down any follow up instruction. Get to the interview on time or 10 minutes early if possible. First thing to remember is to relax. You are prepared so make sure that you look confident, keep eye contact and remember to smile. Make positive and upbeat comments. Talk about what previous work experience you have that would relate to this position. Make sure that your phone is on silent and that you don’t check it during your interview. Never badmouth a previous boss or job, it looks unprofessional.

After the Interview

Make sure that you follow the follow up instructions. Check your email and phone for further information so that you can get back in a timely manner. Make sure to send a thank you note either written by hand or via email (handwritten is preferred most of the time). Thank them for their time and the opportunity they gave you to interview. If you had an obviously unsuccessful interview send a thank you note and ask for feedback on what you could have done better. For more tips like these or information about The Wilson Group, please visit our website or our Facebook.