There is no doubt that an interview can be nerve-wracking, especially if it is one of your first. However, nerves and uncertainty can leave your potential employer feeling anxious about hiring you too. When attending an interview, your main goal should be to impress your potential employer and provide him or her with enough information about your skill set to ensure that he / she can make an informed decision.
There are many things to be said during an interview, and there are many more ways in which to say them. Yet, there are very few ways in which to convince your employer that you’re fit for the job. To ace an interview, it is important to know what to say and how to say it as you risk the chance that your message gets misconstrued, ruining your opportunity in a new position.
In the hopes of avoiding this, it is important to get your research done – try to find useful information about the company, the employees, their initiatives, product offering and, if appropriate, their international activity. If possible, look for your potential employer on professional network sites and skim their profile – the more familiar you are with the company and those interviewing you, the more confident you will be in your communication.
Prepare yourself for the interview – mentally and emotionally, and ensure that you look the part too. Clean-shaven, presentable and well-dressed is always a good start to your interview preparation. If you’re coming up with a winning interview strategy and are looking for ideas on all the right things to say and how to say them, take a look at the following:
“I’m Flexible”
Whether it’s your salary, working hours, role or responsibilities, it is important to remain flexible when attending an interview. Your employer wants to know that you’re comfortable enough to remain flexible within your role, helping wherever they may need you. Being set in your ways alludes to the fact that you’re not ready for growth or that you’re not open to the idea of it. Mention that you are flexible but that you have parameters of your own, too.
“That’s a Great Question!”
If you feel stumped or at a loss for words when it comes to one of your interviewer’s questions, make use of the phrase “That’s a Great Question!” instead of claiming that you are unsure or that you don’t know. This will give you more time to think and will also make it appear you are eager and excited to be there. If you simply do not have a direct answer for the question, impress your potential employer with your vast knowledge of the company and its product offerings – build on this concept and mention the elements that you wish to bring to the table.
“In my Experience…”
Potential employers like to have a glimpse into your previous and current professional life. They are interested to hear about your skill set, your exposure, your knowledge and the extent to which you have networked. Make use of this phrase to reflect your experience and your knowledge of the industry, mention what has worked for you, what has not and the ideas that you have that could improve various elements.
Funnel your thoughts and answers through these simple yet effective responses – not only will it be easier for you to communicate in a language that your potential employer will understand, but it will also reveal your confidence in your ability.
