Dear Candidate, 

Here is a small write up that could help you move from good to great. 

Interview – Quality Time: 

The time that you spend with the client at the Interview, needs to be quality time. This is an opportunity for you to highlight your positive points- your strengths.  The client is looking for the right skill set, attitude, aptitude and values that match with the organization. 

You must make a positive impression on the client.

Ensure you know the basics: 

• Client Name

• Date and time of the interview

• Position being interviewed for

• Role and Job Description

• The exact location of the company / Route Map

• Contact person and telephone number

• The name of the interviewer, his designation / panel size

• Website of the company

• Company’s Profile and Corporate culture

• Salary range as indicated by the client

• Carry a copy of your CV, 2 photographs and copies of your educational certificates and passport.

• Pay attention to you dress code and grooming

Homework 

You must do sufficient research on the company  

Also ensure that you do not misrepresent any of the factual data including:

• Period of service

• Current remuneration

• Current position and Job description

• Previous employment data

• Family background

• Education background

• References

• Training

Questions to expect at the interview 

• Reason for leaving the present job

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• A valid explanation if there have been too many changes in jobs / industry

• Questions based on the job / specialization

• Any initiative undertaken in a previous job that has made a significant positive impact

• Current performance and quantifying it

• Career plans and where you see yourself in the next 5-7 years

• What do you know about the company you are seeking a job with?

• Personal likes / dislikes / hobbies / willingness to relocate

• Current salary and expected salary

• References from ex–employers

• Family details

Pitfalls to avoid during an interview 

• Do not be late for an interview. If the circumstances are beyond your control ensure the consultant / client is informed well in advance

• Avoid a limp handshake

• Be conscious of your posture / body language (Don’t keep hands crossed across chest)

• Do maintain eye-contact

• Avoid any strong regional accents / colloquial usages while talking

• Avoid being either over aggressive or too meek at the interview

• Avoid usage of words / phrases you are not sure about

• Do not over emphasize on the remuneration / monetary benefits you are looking for

• Do not bad-mouth previous employer/s

• Be honest about the reasons for changing previous job/s

• Be forthright if you do not have enough knowledge about a particular question asked

• Do not overstate your past achievements

• Do not go for the interview without doing basic homework on the company / job / role / subject

• Do not overstate current salary

• Be positive and alert at all time during the interview

• Ask intelligent / relevant questions when the interviewer gives you a chance to learn more about the company.

• Do not be rude or impatient if the client asks probing questions- he may be checking your level of tolerance

Closing the interview 

• Avoid saying that you need to consult parents / friends etc to take a decision, rather ask for time to give a response

• Do not show discouragement if you feel the interview has not been positive

• Thank the interviewer for the time and opportunity provided

• Be cheerful and positive and show your eagerness to join the organization