It’s really important to follow up after an interview by thanking everyone you interviewed with. Candidates who send thank you notes get hired more often than those who don’t. Use your thank you note as an opportunity to reiterate why you’re the best candidate for the position.
Even though you’re probably going to be really nervous when you go on your first job interview, the key to a successful first interview is to prepare for the interview, practice interviewing, dress appropriately and try to stay calm.
Remember, your interviewer is mostly likely used to interviewing first time job seekers. Plus, everyone has a first interview in their work history. After interviewing the first time, it will get much easier.
Here are first job interview tips to make the interview a success.
Before Your First Job Interview
Research the Company. Take some time to research so you are familiar with how they operate. There is a lot of company information available online.
Learn About the Job. Learn about the job you are looking to get. Ask yourself, “Why am I the best person for the job?” Do you know someone else who works at the company? Ask them about the job, the interview process, and the company.
Watch a Job Interview Video. Watch interview videos that offer tips to really be prepared.
Practice Interviewing. Review typical teen interview and practice your responses before you go. Ask a family member or friend to ask you some questions, so you can practice your answers.
Dress Appropriately. Choose simple and appropriate attire for the position you are interviewing for. If you’re not sure what to wear ask an adult family member, teacher, or guidance counselor. Take a look at what you shouldn’t wear to a first job interview, as well.
Write a Resume. A resume will make a good impression on the interviewer. Bring a copy of your resume, if you have one, and a pen and paper ready to take along for notes. Here’s how to write your first resume.
Get Directions and a Ride. If you need a ride to the interview, line it up ahead of time. Make sure you know where you are going for the interview so that you do not get lost and are on time.
During Your First Job Interview
- If you’re under 18 and your state requires teens to have working papers, bring your working papers with you.
- Try to stay cool, calm, and collected. Staying as calm as possible, will help you focus on the interviewer.
- If you feel flustered, pause and take a few deep breathes to gather your thoughts.
- Be confident in your skills and abilities when you are talking to the interviewer. Remember this is a first job and you aren’t expected to have a lot of experience.
- Try to incorporate what you know about the company looking to hire you.
- Be honest. If you have sports or other activities that may conflict with your work schedule, tell the interviewer.
- Make eye contact and avoid distractions.
- Listen and take notes. Have a question ready to ask at the end of the interview.
- At the end of the interview thank the interviewer for taking the time to interview you.
After Your First Job Interview
Send a thank you note immediately after the interview. Remind them about how interested you are in the position they are looking to fill. Send a note to each person that interviewed you.
INTERVIEW TIPS-:
Job interviewing never seems to get any easier – even when you have gone on more interviews than you can count. You are meeting new people, selling yourself and your skills, and often getting the third degree about what you know or don’t know. Here are job interview tips to help prepare you to interview effectively. Proper preparation which helps alleviate some of the stress involved in job interviews.
Job Interview Tips
Practice
Practice answering interview questions and practice your responses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of actual examples you can use to describe your skills. Providing evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy.
Prepare
Prepare a response so you are ready for the question “What do you know about our company. Know the interviewer’s name and use it during the job interview. If you’re not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions.
Watch
Take a look at my Job Interview Tips Videos, so you’ll be sure to dazzle a potential employer and leave the right impression.
Get Ready
Make sure your interview attire is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Bring a nice portfolio with copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking
Be On Time
Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.
Stay Calm
During the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Take a moment to regroup. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention – you will be embarrassed if you forget the question!
Show What You Know
Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for.