In some scenarios, the phrase “first impression is your last expression” implies very strongly, such as when you appear for a job interview. Hence, creating a good first impression on your first job interview is essential so that they don’t think twice while considering you for the offered position as they would have a big list of candidates. Therefore, to stand out among those, you must be prepared and knowledgeable about the company’s operations and any potential questions that may pose. Remember, the way you respond to the interviewer’s questions decides whether you advance to the next stage of the interview process and are eligible for your first job offer.
We have researched and jotted down some information regarding this concern. Continue reading to learn about it:
What should you do to prepare for your first job interview?
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Expect to be asked broad questions regarding your interests and background. Remember, you will have to prove why you are the best candidate for the designated job. However, to give yourself an advantage in the next step of the interviewing process, ensure you answer the questions clearly and concisely. No exaggeration, please.
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Review the following list to give you a head start for your first job interview and improve your chances of success:
- Do your research regarding the company and the job:
One of the most critical aspects of interview preparation is researching the organization. This phase in the process will improve your understanding of the company’s industry, business processes, leadership, and media coverage. You can get their valuable information either on their websites or their social media platforms. However, you can also use search engines to uncover appropriate news coverage. Remember, the more you learn about the firm, the more you will be able to predict what kind of person the company is looking for and what questions they would ask you during the interview.
Also, ensure you know everything there is to know about the job you are interviewing for. It is critical to review the job description to determine the day-to-day responsibilities, years of experience, and abilities required to respond effectively to the interviewer’s queries. Typically, your first job is a part-time position that prepares you for later employment, so keep in mind that your first job may prepare you for a job that is more aligned with your career path.
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- Use the STAR technique to practice:
During the interview, you will be asked questions regarding your talents and interest in the job role. However, take note that you may also be asked behavioural questions to assess your situational awareness. Therefore, practice answering questions utilizing the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) approach. This approach converts your responses into a storytelling format as you are looking for your first-ever job; you will be required to tailor your response to achievement during your academic career.
- Ask for feedback on your responses:
With a trustworthy supervisor or friend who can provide constructive critique, practise answering the questions that you believe may be asked by the interviewer. Doing so will enable you to see where you stand, which topics you must prepare for beforehand and which ones you will be able to answer when the interviewer asks and what you need to do further. Being prepared boosts your self-assurance and raises your chances of getting an offer. You can also consider a 30 60 90 Day Plan Template for better preparation and jot down all the objectives and goals. This way, you will have a concise plan in front of you that shows how and when you are to imply the strategies.
- Make a list of references and interview questions:
Take some time out to think and come up with a list of references to your first job interview that can speak to your character and academic experience, as well as questions you would like to ask the employer before the interview. Community leaders, teachers, and family friends can all be used as references. Remember, the quality of the questions you ask also reflects your level of commitment and excitement for the position you are looking for.
What kinds of queries should you anticipate?
It would help if you prepared for your interview with the interviewer by practising beforehand. Consider taking the following set of questions that an interviewer can ask you in the interview:
- Tell me everything you know about the company.
- What makes you want to apply for this job?
- What is your most cherished achievement?
- What do you anticipate to be paid for this position?
- In five to ten years, where do you foresee yourself?
- How would you define your ability to work with others?
- Do you feel relaxed working in a group setting?
- How has your academic background prepared you for this position?
- Why do you think you’re the best candidate for this job?
- What do you think other people think of you?
- Describe a time when you faced adversity in order to achieve a goal.
- Describe an instance when you disagreed with a classmate or teacher.
- What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Interview tips that will help you get the job you want:
Till now, you would have been prepared to encounter your interviewer. To proceed further with the preparation, bring the suggestions into action and set yourself apart from the competition. Consider the following additional tips for better preparation:
- Take notes and bring copies of your résumé:
It would help if you got your resume printed before going for an interview. At least take five copies of your resume with you so that you may hand it to the interviewing team in case you have one, as they might also wish to inquire questions regarding the designated job. Besides, bring with you a pen and a diary or notebook so that you can jot down key discussion points. This would help when you write a thank you note about what you learnt in the future.
- Place emphasis on your strengths and accomplishments:
The ultimate goal of giving an interview is to set yourself apart from the candidates appearing for the same designated position. Hence, focus on how you have influenced others in a classroom setting and the concrete results you have achieved. Besides, it would be great if you have a 30 60 90 Day Plan made before you appear in the interview. It would enable the employers to better understand your talents, ability to set and manage measurable goals, foresight, and willingness to take responsibility for the designated position.
- Early to avoid disappointment:
It would be beneficial to arrive at least 10 to 15 mins earlier before your interview. This way, you will get a sense of the workplace and will be safe from the disappointment that you might face if you arrive late as that would badly influence your image in front of the interviewers. Hence, to be on time, consider the best mode of transportation and, if necessary, seek a ride from a parent or a friend to avoid any inconvenience.
- After you are done with your interview, follow up:
Take the effort and write each interviewer a personalized thank you note. Please make a point of getting a business card from each individual you questioned so you can find out their email address. Then, within 24 to 48 hours of the interview, send them an email.
Conclusion:
Summing up the article here, we believe that the above-discussed information would be enough to tackle your concerned matter. Moreover, we assure you that considering the suggestion will help you give the best possible interview. Hence, give your best and leave the rest to your luck.
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