Before The Job Interview, An Enemy Lurks
Preparing for and the
contemplation of a job interview ranks high as one of the most stressful moments of a person’s life. Being fired or unemployed
doesn’t even rank as high. Nonetheless, it
is a necessary evil in the procurement of most jobs.
Keep in mind that having
an interview is in itself a very positive thing. Already
they have come to know
you on paper. You
look good enough that they believe you qualify for the position they are
offering. So think positive thoughts as
you prepare.
Like public speaking
(another high-stress situation), preparation is KEY. You
can do a lot to de-stress the situation by thinking and planning ahead, both
mentally and physically.
Consider what you should take
with you. Gather those things and put
them in a small
briefcase or a folder. These 4 things should be at the top of your list.
#1 Your Resume:
First and foremost is having a copy of your
resume. It may even be a
good idea to take more than one copy, in case one gets a coffee stain, or more
than one individual within the company needs a copy. Some hirers only ask for a completed
application, but try having
a resume already
prepared anyway
. It
shows forethought and that you are interested enough in them to have done your
homework.
#2 Pen and Paper:
Likely during the interview, you will want to
jot down notes on some of the topics brought up. Perhaps names and/or contact information,
hours you will be expected to work, addresses to which you will need to report. Logically, having a working pen (test it
first) or two, and a notepad available will
show the hiring agent that you are serious about this job.
#3 List of References: Another document to
already have prepared is your
List of References. This is an easy document to make ready,
but very important. Type up a list of three
non-family individuals who can vouch for your character and work ethic. Make
sure they themselves are dependable, as they may have to return a call. It is standard practice (and polite) to get
permission from these individuals ahead of time, letting them know they may be
called as a Reference.
#4 Letters of Recommendation: If you have received any Letters of Recommendation from
noteworthy individuals from your past or previous employers, have clean copies
of those available. Make sure to provide
their contact information somewhere in the document, either in their Header/Footer,
at the Signature Line, or within the last paragraph. If by the end of the interview, the hirer has
not asked you about any Letters of Recommendation (or Letters of Reference),
let them know they are available should they be interested in seeing them.
Plan Your Attire
The day before the
interview, plan what you will wear. It
should be normal business attire, nothing too extravagant, tight or revealing,
and nothing too casual. Make sure your
hair (beard too if you have one) is well trimmed, the style neat and tasteful. Polish up those shoes; clip and clean your fingernails. If “blending in” isn’t your forte, remember
that there is a lot of competition out there, and appearances (especially first
ones) speak volumes about the type of employee you will be.
In addition, try to get a
good night’s sleep the night before.
Sleeping rejuvenates and re-charges the brain. Granted you may have a lot on your mind, and
sleep may not want to come. If that is
the case, employ some method of getting your mind off the interview and your
nervousness before you go to bed.
Put on an interesting
movie or read a fascinating book (not too stimulating). Go visit a friend and engage them in some
meaningful conversation. Stay away from
stimulants that may prevent you from falling asleep, like caffeine drinks or
strenuous exercise before bedtime. Do
whatever you need to do to clear your mind, relax, and rest well.
Most Importantly -- Think Positively! Keep in mind that they have already been
impressed with you on paper. Now show
them you didn’t lie – you really are talented
and terrific!
The Job Interview
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