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Discussion on: Preparing for job interview

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ShantaMilan

Any interview is a stressful situation for almost every one. On the one hand the people who are taking interview want to find the best fit for the job while the applicants want to show case all that they are and squeeze it in that particular given time frame. No wonder the air inside an interview room always seems to be a bit thicker. Presented below are some ways I would prepare for an interview.

1. Research the job you are applying for

The first step is to understand the organization and job you are applying for. Do you believe in the goal and vision of the organization? Also are you fit for the role they have advertised for? Preparing to these questions gives you clarity for the next steps.

2. Prepare a strong CV

A strong CV does not mean that you put every single detail of your academic qualification and experience. Long CV does not make it strong. Instead understand the job description and cater your academic or experience to it. If your experience is more appealing then put it before your academic qualification.

3. Prepare a list of possible question

It is a good idea to go online to search for possible question. Try and understand what the organization you are applying for wants in the job and what you can deliver to add value. Questions such as "what is a…,” What does…,” "What happens when…,” "What do you do if…,” "Here is the situation, what would you do,” practical simulations, "why would you…,” could be some of the question to be prepared beforehand. (Bell & Smith, 2006, p. 443)

4. Stay calm

Before the interview there may be a lot of other candidates who are talking about the interview and getting nervous. This is kind of contagious so I would stay away and remember my pitch and question in my head. People coming and going, longer and shorter period of the interview may not matter but the thinking and assuming agitates. So staying calm would be the answer.

5. Understand the interviewers

It may be difficult to know but if you can find out and research a little on who is taking the interview can help. Social media is an open source of information on peoples likes and dislikes.

6. Stand out

With many candidates it can be harder to stand out. But small stories or incident that are related to the question can help you being remembered by the interviews later in the selection process.

7. Answering the question

The built up pressure can add to people speaking without thinking. You do not need to start explaining everything as soon as the question is asked. Think for a minute, compose your thoughts and speak. If you do not know something do not try and make up things. A simple "I do not know about that or I was unaware of that fact, thank you” would be a better answer. Giving short and precise answers would be good.

8. Change you mindset

Imagine what it would be like having them as your team member or mentors and talk to them. Over thinking of the situation can be dangerous as it will inflate your thinking and nervousness. Instead prepare a mindset where you are excited to go and explain to them that you are someone who will be a good addition in their team. Thinking of them as the people who are going to choose you will stress you out but thinking of them as your team members will give you motivation to talk freely.

These are some ways in which I would prepare for the interview.

Reference
Bell, A. L., & Smith, D. M. (2006). Communication. In A. L. Bell, & D. M. Smith, Management communication (pp. 500-505). Delhi: John Wiley & Sons. Inc.