Interviews can be quite stressful and daunting for most people. But they don’t really have to be if you are confident and prepared with the basics. Interviews are about more than simply knowing the right answers to questions. It is about proving that you can be an asset to the company and represent in all spheres, as and when required. The first impression is a lasting one, especially when trying to get a job that is important to you. It takes time and effort to be well prepared. Being both physically and mentally put together is vital.

Remember these 5 key points while preparing for an interview, especially if it’s your first time:

#1. Plan Ahead

• Optimize the time available before an interview.
• Study possible questions and answers.
• Knowing how to answer tricky questions can be even more important than knowing the right answers in some cases.
• Most employers will try to test your ability to think on your feet, improvise and handle tricky situations rather than your knowledge of the job (this may be obvious from your CV).
• Think about the kind of job you’re applying for the skill set required for it. Work on emphasizing and displaying those skills adequately.
• Keep all essential items ready to pack. This includes, water, umbrella, copies of CV’s, breath mints, band aids etc.

#2. Dress Appropriately

• Presentation is extremely important.
• Usually, formal attire is recommended.
• This shows future employers that you’re serious about the job and that you can be trusted to represent their organization appropriately.
• Do not forget about the details – neatly press clothes, check and stitch up lose hems, replace missing buttons, etc.
• Ensure that you’re well-groomed and look fresh and prepared for the interview.
• Check shoes for any tears, clean finger nails, and pamper yourself a little.
• Feeling confident helps create a good impression.

#3. Understand Your Limitations

• Use your skills, experience and even drawbacks to your advantage.
• Learn how to turn shortcomings into factors that can be improved upon.
• Practice answering questions clearly and concisely.
• Refrain from lying on a CV, being found out could ruin any future prospects with the company.

#4. Know Your Audience

• Do a little bit of research on the company so that you’re able to understand exactly what specialize in.
• This shows employers that you’re actively interested in the company, where it is heading and that you would like to contribute to its growth and development.
• Prepare questions of your own for individual interviews; ask about current events that the interviewer may be involved in at the firm, and so on.

#5. Body language matters

• Nervous ticks and posture can say much more about personality traits than words can.
• Consciously try to sit upright, look interested and refrain from fidgeting.
• Take as many mock interviews as possible, read articles and watch videos on how body language can be interpreted by different people.

Understanding how to prepare and conduct yourself during an interview becomes easier with time. Each interview format may be different but there are a few standard questions that are asked. Having the basics taken care of can help reduce nerves and anxiety, thereby increasing your chances of getting that dream job. Stay tuned for more career advice, job trends, leadership guidance and other topics we will be covering!