How to be Successful at Interview

Are you thinking of again seeking a job after a break or are you seeking a new opening after a long gap? You better know what you would be asked at the interview. If you are seeking a job with a lot of responsibilities, be thorough with interview strategies so that you can sell yourself well and land the desired position. Thus you can make an impression.

First few minutes are crucial: Keep in mind that first five minutes make or mar your chances. Recruiting managers take just 10 minutes to judge a candidate even if the interview goes long. So make a good start by creating a positive image of yourself. Be well dressed, confident, enthusiastic and of course professional. Don't forget to make a firm handshake. At the same time you shouldn't be exuberant in any way. You must be very careful in your initial comments. Be relaxed right from the beginning.

Your goal: Plan your strategy with care. You must be sure of your response to the usual questions at the beginning of the interview. Your response should satisfy the interviewer and should not hit at any concerns. Here are a few usual questions and responses:

1. Tell me about yourself: Speak about your professional accomplishments and qualifications relating to the job you are seeking.
2. Do you know what we do? Get to know about the company before hand and say how you would be able to contribute to the success of the company.
3. Why do you want to join us? Only give specific reasons for wishing to work with them.
4. Why do you want to quit the current job? You should be diplomatic and should not abuse other employers. Focus on what attracted you to seek the particular job.
5. What is your significant professional achievement? Highlight an accomplishment that portrays your abilities and your respect for values.

See beyond the company's website: Don't entirely depend on the website of the company and its marketing material to understand the strategies of the company. Search for online articles about the company. Look for professional magazines that make a mention of the company. Your friends may also throw some meaningful light on the company, its culture, history and competitors in the market. This pre-interview exercise will help you make an insight into the working of the company and what is your path of growth.

Make an attempt to help the employer value your likely contribution: Explain how you stand out from other competitors and outline how you are the right fit for the job. For instance, if you know that the firm has expansion plans, tell them how you will be able to help them by throwing light on your role in the expansion programs of your present employer. Or if the company is searching for a hand to look after their vendor contracts, speak more about the experience you had in the area.

Don't be off guard: Should not make an impression that you are unprofessional. Remember that an interview is a two-way affair and be prepared for some spontaneous responses. You must see to it that your responses portray your personality by referring to your strengths and your interests relating to work. Make an attempt to show how would fit into their work culture.

Whatever your experience and whatever be the number of interviews you have attended, better know that the success at an interview depends on how well you have prepared for it. Be confident all the while.