subject: How to Ace Your First Job Interview [print this page] Most new job seekers dread the thought of their first job interview. This is because of the fear of not knowing what to say and for being judged for your answers. It is going to be tough but there are ways to get through to that and survive.
Be prepared. You have to learn as much as possible about your prospective employer. Try to learn about the company's industry, its mission and vision, how your ideal job fits the company and the daily duties and responsibilities of that job. Lists some possible questions that you think will be asked and formulate answers that can show the very best way to explain who you are and what you do in a compelling, "hire me" kind of way.
Dress appropriately. Prepare your attire and make sure that it fits to the company's dress code.
Mind the time. Arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled interview. This is to prepare you and become at ease before the scheduled time.
First impression lasts. This is really true when it comes to job interviews. The very first impression you make on the interviewer can have a great influence on the course of the interview. It is best to introduce yourself, shake hands and be confident. The interviewer may ask you friendly questions to help you relax. Answer it in a simple but polite manner without going into too much detail. Let the interviewer take the lead of the conversation and try to relax.
Share your life experiences. As this is your first job interview, you are not expected to have an extensive amount of job experience. The best way to convince the interviewer is to share your life experiences from your summer jobs, academic career, hobbies and other activities that you can show your ability to perform the job. There are many activities that schools create to have better workers in the future. You can tell those experiences in stories that describe how you took actions, made decisions and the results achieved. This will provide the interviewer a vivid example of what you can do.
Ask questions. The most important question in an interview should come from you. Try to ask something that shows you are interested in the company and what you can offer to them.
Say thank you. After the interview, say thank you to the interviewer and shake hands. It is also recommended that you send a thank you letter after the interview. Interviewers say that doing it made a lot of difference in their decision.
