Sales techniques often focus on building a rapport or relationship by mirroring behaviours. It is based on the principle that when there are similarities between two people, each of them perceives the other positively.
Simply put, this means taking into account the way the interviewer behaves. If they are and balanced, it it would not be in your favour to behave emotionally and temperamentally.
It has been proven that most of the perceived communication comes from the non-verbal body language - posture, movements, expression. During the interview, your goal will be to control your nonverbal messages, as well as to capture and mimic the interviewer's style of behaviour. That's why it's important to have your "homework" done in advance and to be prepared for your presentation so that you don't focus on how and in what words to present yourself.
As a first step, it is very important that you arrive on time for the interview. The same is valid if you have a scheduled online interview. Delay, regardless of the reason, is perceived as disrespect and insufficient interest on your part. Plan your time. Even if you arrive early and have to wait, it is much better than being late. The delay would practically form the first impression about you. Negative, unfortunately.
In addition to the timing, you will be greeted by the clothes you wear. Same is true for an online interview. Therefore, as we said in the previous post, be careful and analyse the corporate environment through the company's website and other information that you can find about it and choose the most appropriate attire. If you see that the company adheres to a strict and formal style, dress accordingly. If you think there is no dress code, stick to a smart business style. By your attitude towards clothing people will judge about your attitude towards work and the company. Show respect. Ripped jeans and T-shirts are not the best way to present yourself in the first key minutes when impression about you will be formed.
Remember to greet each of the interviewers and wait for them to invite you to start.
Pay attention to your posture and body language - do not cross your arms in front of your chest, do not cover your lips with your hand, do not play with objects, do not change the position of your body often.
From the beginning, try to calmly and positively demonstrate motivation with regard to the position and the organisation, without looking tense. This can be the differentiator for choosing between you and other candidates who most likely have skills and experience similar to yours.
Listen carefully to the questions you are asked and do not rush to answer. Consider your answers and express yourself concisely, clearly and grammatically correctly. Do not interrupt or take the word.
Smile. And maintain eye contact with the interviewer. In a panel interview, relate your answer to the person asking the question, keeping your eyes on the other members of the panel as well.
Try to understand the reason each question is being asked. This will help you formulate your answers. It is important to demonstrate good competencies, positive thinking, flexibility, adaptability and orientation to the end result, as well as to reassure the interviewers about your desire to work long-term in this company. While answering, show how your skills meet the needs of the company.
You are already prepared for your initial presentation, for the examples you will give, as well as for difficult topics such as weaknesses and failures. Don't make the interviewers "pull" the words out of your mouth. This makes everyone nervous.
Remember to also focus on your readiness to acquire new skills, to take on new responsibilities, to develop. Radiate confidence, maturity and vitality - you should have already rehearsed it at home.
Avoid raising or discussing topics related to politics, religion, ethnicity, or prejudices. Most companies have special policies to avoid discrimination. Your comments can easily be interpreted as discriminatory. And with that, the recruitment process would immediately stop for you.
Be honest! Don't try to pretend to be someone you are not. Do not exaggerate about your skills or achievements. In most cases, this is noticeable and could ruin your chances of hiring. Emphasise your strengths. In the event that past failures are raised as a question, explain the circumstances briefly, without making excuses or blaming anyone.
As we said in the previous post, ask questions that show interest in the company, the organisational culture, the goals of the organisation, even why the interviewer chose to work in this company and what they likes mostly about it. You could ask what the next steps in the selection process would be.
Be sure to thank the interviewers at the end of the meeting and wish them success in finding the most suitable candidate for the position.
How to behave during an interview and answer without harming yourself is a skill that requires years of experience. Or consultation with professionals.
We at ExcluCV will be happy to be a part of your success! Impress employers! Don't let yourself be chosen. You choose!