The Covid-19 pandemic has unfortunately displaced many from their existing jobs. Whether you are looking for a new job in this pandemic or simply seeking another one for growth, it can be a source of uncertainty-induced stress. If you have certain criteria—and you must—then finding a job is no piece of cake. It should match your interests, have good HR policies, offer you the remuneration you deserve and the list goes on.
So when you find an opportunity that matches the criteria, you feel even more charged to nail the interview. Often, anticipating an interview makes many of us nervous, but knowing how to tackle them can add to our confidence.
Types of interviews
There are various kinds of interviews and while the process may be somewhat similar, each type may have its own differences. To know how to ace your job interview, you must be aware of the types of interviews there are.
Face to face
Such interviews usually happen at the company’s office and could involve multiple rounds on the same or different days. You may have a one-on-one discussion with HR, followed by another one with your prospective manager. In such interviews, your body language and mannerisms are important.
Telephonic
These interviews involve speaking with the candidate over a pre-scheduled phone call. The person interviewing you may be based anywhere in the country, or the world since calling someone over the internet is now easy.
Video call
Many employers prefer a video call interview, as a perfect substitute for an on-site rendezvous. The video interview is scheduled and a link is shared to join the digital meeting. However, many employers tend to keep their cameras off, while you keep yours on. Either way, you are expected to maintain composure and good body language.
Off-site
Often, managers who have a rather dynamic schedule make time for an interview off-site, say over lunch. Sometimes, it’s to make a prospective employee feel comfortable, in an informal setting.
Panel
Many employers prefer having a candidate come in for a conversation in front of a panel, comprising people they may work with or for, should the person be hired.
Group
This involves interviewers clubbing several candidates together to analyse their teamwork and leadership skills, in a group setting.
Importance of research before an interview
Before an interview, it is essential to conduct thorough research on your potential employer. You will understand their business better and be able to communicate with confidence during the discussion. A candidate who has conducted their research demonstrates their interest in the job. You will also be able to understand the company’s values and mission, and thus gauge for yourself if you would actually like to join it. You can also use that information to prepare yourself for reflecting values that align with those of the company. This will also help you ask meaningful questions that can make your conversation intriguing to the interviewer.
Dressing right for an interviewer
Your qualifications and skills go beyond what you wear but business-appropriate attire is valued as you join a company. While several companies are moving towards smart casuals as the dress code, many are sticking to strictly formals. It is advisable to understand what works for the company and the industry you are going for.
When in doubt, stick to fuss-free formal attire and a clean makeup look. Even if it is a video interview instead of an on-site one, ensure you dress in formal attire and clean up well. Being well-groomed makes you look organised and presentable. It means no chipped nail polish or messy hair.
Tips on acing each type of interview
Face to face: In an on-site interview, it is important to pay extra attention to your body language and your attire, as well as your mannerisms. Appear confident (even if you are nervous on the inside), do not fidget with things and keep your handbag carefully on the floor or an empty chair. Maintain an upright posture and greet them with a firm handshake.
Telephonic: While you may be thorough with your research, the quality of your phone call can have a great impact on your interview. Ensure you are speaking with your interviewer in a quiet room, without being interrupted. When you answer the call, ensure you sound enthusiastic and wide awake (even if you are sleepy or bored!) Do not interrupt when your interviewer is talking to you and always end the call with good courtesy.
Video call: For a video interview, you must be well-dressed, even if it means putting on a well-ironed shirt on top of your lounge shorts. Join the meeting link, five minutes in advance to keep a buffer period for any technical mishaps that may occur. Consider it to be like an on-site interview and do as you would in one. If your interviewer isn’t turning on their camera and you are talking to a big black square, instead of a face, don’t let awkwardness take over.
Off-site: It may sound like an informal rendezvous but don’t let that fool you to let your formal guard down. Reach before time and if you must order food, call for something that won’t make you look like a hungry cat devouring a piece of tuna.
Panel: It may feel overwhelming to talk to a group of interviewers at the same time. But when you confidently speak to them, they will be able to assess your ability to hold the attention of a group and manage a team.
Group: When put in an interview with other candidates, several people tend to get their offensive and defensive best. While it is good to be assertive, interrupting and demeaning other candidates will not look good on you. The purpose is to show your assertion and teamwork skills, so be respectful of others but don’t be afraid to put your points across firmly.
Don’ts of an interview
Irrespective of the type of interview you are called for, there are certain things you should never do. Here’s a list.
1) Don’t be late, unless it is truly an emergency. It will make you start on the wrong foot.
2) Don’t be nervous. While a little nervousness is understandable, however, if you seem to be shaky, it will make your interview dismiss you as not confident enough.
3) Don’t dress shabbily. You don’t have to look like you came straight from a runway show, you have to look well-groomed and neat.
4) Don’t skip on the research. It’s important!
5) Don’t appear clueless. Prepare meaningful questions in advance.
Dealing with interview stress
Interviews can feel quite stressful, and often employers even try to put the candidates in stressful situations to assess how they behave under pressure. Anticipating all those seemingly invasive questions can be a source of anxiety. How do you manage your stress before and during an interview so you can give it your best shot?
The best thing you can do before an interview is thoroughly equip yourself with knowledge of the industry and the company. Brush up on your concepts, study if your field requires you to. Knowing that you are prepared in that sense can ease some of that stress. Keep a lot of buffer time to get ready for the interview and make it on time.
You can practice calming techniques or speak to a loved one who would hype that confidence right back up!
During the interview, remember they are just mortals and tackle the stressful questions with calmness. Be ready with your career story and know that you are amazing.
Conclusion
Interviews can make you feel anxious but with a little preparation and confidence, you can make it. Give it your best shot and wait for the verdict! Even if you don’t get selected, don’t let it bring your confidence down. You can ask them for feedback (they may or may not offer to give). You will find the job that is meant for you.
FAQs
1) What kind of research should I conduct on the company?
Find out about their businesses, the kind of work they do, their values and their mission.
2) Is it important to dress for a video interview?
Yes, it is important. Wear something formal or smart casuals.
Also Read: 5 Questions To Ask Your Interviewer
Also Read: How To Narrate Your Career Stories Effectively In An Interview