Last update: 17 September, 2019
The job interview can be one of the moments of greatest pressure in the job search process. If possible, it is better to prepare this meeting in detail, to come up with sincere and brilliant answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Think of a company that is looking for the right candidate for the job it offers. The job interview is positive if the characteristics and qualities of the candidate are highlighted, which could not otherwise emerge with any other evidence during the selection process. Characteristics and qualities that will make us get the job or not.
On the other hand, before going to the job interview, we have usually already passed an initial selection process based on the resume. In other words, we have the knowledge and skills necessary for the position offered. The outcome of this phase will depend on how we respond and the questions we ask.
At the job interview they want to get to know us in person, evaluate the image we project, how we express ourselves, if we keep calm and, obviously, many other aspects related directly or indirectly to the place we aspire to.
Unexpected questions can always arise, some may be specially designed to put pressure on. While not decisive, it is also true that it is easy to lose your job due to an inappropriate or lackluster answer.
Let's see what other points are important during a job interview.
How to best support a job interview
1. Study the company
The more we know about the company that contacts us, the better. Try to get as much information as possible about the number of employees; if there is a website, deepen its philosophy, the products sold, the turnover, etc.
The Internet is a great ally to find all this information; however, if you have the opportunity, it is best to go to the office in person, to get interesting information (structure of the building, if it is possible to reach it on foot, if there is parking, a metro or bus stop …).
2. Where and when
It is important to be clear about the place, the day and the time when we have set the appointment. It is possible that they will summon you to a place that is not related to the company. It happens quite frequently when companies rely on other organizations for staffing. Also in this case, if possible, go a few days in advance to the place in question, in order to calculate exactly the time you need to reach it, if you can use public transport or if you can park easily.
Punctuality is a key aspect. Try to calculate a margin for contingencies; on the other hand, even though you are already there, don't show up too early. Doing so can give the feeling that you are managing your time badly and not planning your schedule well.
3. Have a well-groomed appearance
We have already heard to the point of exhaustion the phrase: "A picture is worth a thousand words". Well, in this case, that's really true. Taking into account the workplace you are presenting for and the company policy, you must look for clothing that is consistent with these two variables.
For businesses or “more serious” places, look for an appropriate suit in a neutral color, a tie with the company's colors, closed and clean footwear and an ironed shirt. Everything must also be comfortable, so as to be able to convey a feeling of formality, without giving the idea of ​​playing a part.
On the contrary, if the position you aspire to is as a "waiter of a kiosk on the beach", going with the suit is perhaps not the best idea. It is worth looking for something much more casual, giving free space to spontaneity. Our potential clients will be enjoying their holidays and prefer cheerful people. Consequently, this is what they will want to find in us, and our way of dressing can be a first sign.
4. Documents
Bring with you a copy of the curriculum vitae you sent and, if you have been asked for any other documents, make sure you have organized everything flawlessly.
Study your resume by heart, as they may ask you to explain it in more detail in the interview. It is possible that they want to know what a certain training path or a certain experience has represented for you.
5. Better alone
It is best to show up for a job interview alone. Going with someone can be interpreted as a sign of immaturity or insecurity. It often happens that parents assist their children in their first job interviews, telling them how to behave or what to say. Be careful, because human resources departments have evolved and the characteristics they seek are not always in line with a superficial analysis carried out by our loved ones.
In the end, each interview, each HR manager and each candidate is a world unto itself. The person who usually ends up winning the job is the one who has the greatest ability to "read" their interview and connect with the examiner.
"The dictionary is the only place where success comes before sweat."
-Vincent Lombardi-
