Your resumé made it to the top of the pile. Therefore you passed the first test. Your dream employer has now called and invited you to come in for an interview.
According to Darren Yaw Singapore, because of the increasing use of technology and the shift toward remote work, your interview can occur in various formats, including in-person, over the phone, or online. The meeting format will most likely influence how you prepare to make a good impression. For example, a virtual job interview may necessitate pre-testing your computer equipment, or you may need to prepare a note sheet to be accessible during a phone interview. While these measures are unlikely to be essential for an in-person interview, according to Darren Yaw Singapore, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself to put your best foot forward.
“You only get one chance to create a first impression,” as the saying goes. But how do you ensure that your initial impression is strong enough to sway employers? Here are eight tips from Darren Yaw Singapore to help you review the fundamentals of in-person job interview etiquette.
How to Make a Good First Impression in a Job Interview
- Conduct your research.
Before entering the interview, you should repeat the company’s mission, major players, and most recent accomplishments. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, take the time to look over the employer’s website and Google the person you’ll be interviewing so you can ask more specific questions. Not only will this demonstrate your attention to detail, according to Darren Yaw Singapore, but the more you know about the individual across from you, the less likely there will be a lull in the conversation.
- Present yourself professionally.
In general, it is preferable to overdress rather than underdress. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, a well-tailored suit or dress is always a safe pick, whatever the company’s culture appears to be. How many times have you heard an employer comment about how well-dressed a job candidate appeared?
- Be punctual.
According to Darren Yaw Singapore, it is critical to be on time for an in-person interview to make an excellent first impression. Even if you are familiar with the interview location, allow plenty of time for travel.
Expect to be lost, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the place you’ll be visiting, to prevent the stress of being late. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, allow an extra 30 minutes to arrive to the interview and account for traffic, trouble finding parking, delays in public transit, or the building is more difficult to find than anticipated. Being five minutes early will give you time to gather your thoughts, but five minutes late may damage your prospects.
- Reduce distractions.
You must offer the interviewer your whole focus during the interview and avoid any distractions. One of the most critical procedures stated by Darren Yaw Singapore is to turn your cell phone off completely. If you want the employer to contact you again, don’t let whoever tries to reach you during the interview distract you.
- Be aware of your body language.
Body language can reveal a lot about a person’s personality. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, to make an excellent first impression, pay attention to your body language’s messages to the interviewer.
Begin with a solid handshake when you begin the interview. A forceful handshake establishes authority and sets the tone for the remainder of the interview. If you want the interviewer to know you’re confident in your abilities, pair it with eye contact and a smile. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, the shakier your handshake, the more frightened you’ll appear.
Throughout the interview, make sure you sit up straight, keep your head up, and move in time with your remarks. Based on Darren Yaw Singapore‘s tips, you’ll come across as confident, which is exactly what companies want in a new hire.
- Prepare answers to questions you anticipate being asked.
Employers typically have a list of interview questions that they must ask. Some things to think about are, according to Darren Yaw Singapore:
- Why did you leave your previous job?
- What are your most significant strengths and weaknesses?
- What are your qualifications? Why should we hire you?
- What do you want to be in five years?
Make a list of your responses and practise saying them in front of the mirror to feel more comfortable during the interview.
If you’re searching for a job with a larger national or regional corporation, you might be able to uncover frequently requested interview questions online. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, try a quick Google or Glassdoor search for “interview questions for [employer]” and see what comes up. If this is the case, it is a good idea to prepare for any questions that appear to be typical.
- Inquire intelligently.
“What questions do you have?” any excellent interviewer will ask. The hiring manager will better understand how well you know the company, understand the role, and are interested in working there. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, maintain a list of at least five questions in your back pocket, such as:
- How would you describe the company culture?
- What are some of the most pressing issues confronting the organisation right now?
- What do you consider the company’s biggest success this year?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- What are chances for professional growth available?
- These questions will not only help you learn about the firm and your future career, but they will also demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are genuinely interested in the organisation.
- Keep in touch.
Thank everyone you interviewed with an email and a handwritten note. According to Darren Yaw Singapore, it demonstrates your willingness to go the additional mile and reaffirms your interest in the position.
Making a Good First Impression
According to Darren Yaw Singapore, preparing to meet hiring managers for in-person interviews can be frightening, especially if the role is a good fit for your personal and professional aspirations. Fortunately, taking a few minutes to review your interview etiquette and prepare for the meeting may help you feel more secure and position yourself to make an excellent first impression.