Owning a Car is Still Important in Today’s Job Search
Do you have an interview? Continue to be prepared, because this part is essential for making a good (first) impression. This moment is one of the decisive moments for the company to select candidates because it is the first step to leave a good first impression.
An interview cannot be improvised, it is important to be well prepared! First, do some research on the company and its activities. If there is one, reread the job posting, noting the keywords. Also, spend time reading the news of the sector that interests you. While carrying out this survey you can also prepare some questions that you will ask during the interview.
The job interview is a time of discussion that should allow the recruiter to choose the right candidate and the latter to assess the interest of the position, check that the position and the company correspond to his professional project.
Also, prepare answers to frequently asked questions. For example, it’s very likely that the recruiter will ask you to introduce yourself within minutes. Train at home, if possible with a loved one. Be careful, however, not to learn a text by heart, the goal being to remain natural. Likewise, if it is specified on the offer that fluency in English is required, expect to spend part of the interview in that language!
Anticipate the practical aspects of this meeting: find out in advance your route as well as the place where you have an appointment, remember to print out a few CVs, and have something with you to take notes.
During the interview: A professional and natural attitude!
Be punctual!
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), a considerable number of job applicants are failing every month because of tardiness during interviews and one of the big reasons for this is traffic or any other transportation problem. If you are applying for higher positions like a manager or other senior positions, you should attend the interview with your own car. Sometimes, employers profile applicants and lifestyle is another factor. Of course, you don’t have to buy a new car considering your position is looking for a job, but a decent used car from Zemotor.com will do the job.
As soon as you arrive, be professional. If you have a problem on your trip, remember to tell the recruiter that you are late. Adopt a sober and comfortable dress code. The main thing is that you are comfortable and natural! Be careful, however: just because you are having an interview in a “cool” structure that you should neglect your interview dress. On the contrary, to leave a good impression, it is better to appear too serious than not enough!
During the conversation, show yourself interested: listen attentively, take notes, look at your interlocutors. Taking notes during the interview is essential, for example, the recruiter may ask you at the end of the interview to give him feedback, to see what you understood about the position and its challenges. Also, remember to ask questions: it shows that you are paying attention!
Finally, pay close attention to your posture: do not stay bent or cross your arms. It might be shyness on your part, but the recruiter might think you aren’t interested. Adopt a positive attitude: smile and look him in the eye!
If this is a remote interview …
More and more interviews are also taking place by phone or video. First of all, prepare yourself like a normal interview! Put on your clothes and shoes: you’ll be in better shape and you won’t be caught off guard if the recruiter asks you to turn on your video in the middle of the phone interview.
Remember to check your equipment: internet connection charged battery … Try to settle in a quiet place. If you have to turn on your camera, watch out for the background! Find a bright, neutral place (in front of a wall, for example).
Sell your skills
Your experience, your knowledge, or just your interests make you a suitable candidate for this position; always remember that you need to convey this idea. Put your insecurities aside and betray yourself mercilessly. Now is the time to introduce yourself and highlight your skills, qualities, and experience. For example: “The experience I gained in Zone X gave me the skills needed to meet and exceed your expectations for the position.”
This is how you should end the interview
Your position is important to you, but the person you interview is also important. If you can and have time, ask some pre-prepared questions about your interest in the job. The last question may be the possible date of the decision. Be grateful, once again express your interest in working with the company and leave the stage.
When the time is right, ask one of the interviewers for a business card and ask if you can call within a few days
Thank the interviewer after the interview
A day or two after the interview, don’t forget to send the recruiter a thank you email and specify if you still like the position. In addition to showing your motivation and determination, this email will also serve as a stimulus. Conversely, if following the interview you doubt you are fit for the job or you still have a few questions, take the opportunity to ask them.
Keep in mind that the job interview is the first contact between your company and a potential future employee. It is important that this first contact is correct with all candidates
Final recommendations
Dress to formally introduce yourself, don’t wait for the interviewer to take the first step, shake hands confidently and professionally, show that you have the energy and enthusiasm to assume the position, and listen carefully to the interviewer. Make eye contact and answer questions seriously and honestly.