How to Survive a Job Interview

A.  We all have that singular fear. The one thing that no matter how prepared we are, we actually aren’t prepared at all. Job interviews… But are they really that bad?

B.  The interview its self is not the problem. In all reality, it is how we are or are not preparing. Getting our dream job or “just a job” is such a big deal to us that we make the interview this big scary monster that we try our best to put off and not face, and that my friends is how we are setting ourselves up for failure.

C.  Summarize the main idea of your speech. Quickly state your three main points

1.    The basics

2.    Attire/Etiquette

3.    The interview 

I. First Main Point:  The Basics

A.   There are a few basic things you will need in order to ace your interview, or at the least survive it. Always research the business, practice your answers, and show up early!

1.    Always research the business you are applying to. You obviously don’t want to go into the interview knowing every detail about them. But knowing their mission statement and what they stand for is a good place to start. Another thing you will want to do is know the job you are interviewing for. You should know exactly what will be expected of you and be able to answer jobs regarding the position should they arise.

2.    Practice your answers to interview questions. Although most companies are completely different, they still ask some of the basic interview questions. You can google “basic interview questions” or go by what you have been asked most in interviews. Remember not to ramble on and keep your answers fairly simple unless asked to elaborate by the interviewer.

B.   The interview is not so much about impressing the employer with what you know about them or the fact that you wear Versace to your interview. You really just need to focus on crafting your interview without sounding like a robot or having no personality. Most of the time personality is a big factor when hiring someone.

II.  Second Main Point: Attire/Etiquette

A.  We all know or should know that you dress to impress when it comes to a job interview and that you always shake hands, make eye contact, and show enthusiasm.

1.    Choosing something to wear to a job interview is most times a nightmare. But it doesn’t have to be. A good go-to outfit would be a dress shirt and khakis. That is unless you are expected to wear a suite to work or something of that nature.

2.    Your gestures are things that you do and sometimes without realizing it. You want to make sure the interviewer feels that you are paying attention and are focused in on what they are saying. Which is where eye contact comes in.

B.   There is also etiquette when it comes to job interviews. You always want to address the interviewer formally by using Ms . or Mr. Make sure your cell phone is off. Never interrupt the interviewer or ask them multiple times to repeat the question, and sit up straight in your seat.

III. Main Point 3: The Interview

A.  Let’s run through the interview in our minds.

1.    You get dressed and arrive fifteen minutes early for the interview. This is great because it not only makes you look good, but also gives your nerves time to settle down. You check in with the receptionist and eagerly wait for your name to be called.

2.    You are called in for your interview and address the interviewer formally. You sit up straight and make eye contact. All questions are answered properly and you seem enthused about the job.

B.   Taking time to sit down and visualize the interview through your head is a great way to familiarize yourself with what to expect. By the time you do it four o five times, when the interview comes up you will feel like you have already done it and it will make it that much easier.

IV.Conclusion

A.  Restate your three main points

1.    The basics

2.    Attire/Etiquette

3.    The Interview

B.  Interviews may seem scary and tough, but preparing for them and knowing what you are talking about makes them a piece of cake. Just remember to be familiar with the company and position, dress appropriately, and use proper interview etiquette and you should be set.

C.  I want to end on a quote or saying. I found this to be very fitting although kind of generic. But, be the best version of you! In the end that is all you can really do and whether or not you get the job, you will know that you tried and were authentic to yourself.