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If you experience nervousness before an interview, you are not alone. Every one of us has had the experience of trying to impress a future employer. It's a fact that in the interview world, certain things can give you an edge over the competition. To appear your most professional and create an impression that an employer won't soon forget, take heed of the following interview tips:
Dress Wisely
While you may feel a burning desire to express your individuality, suppress your need to wear those glowing green Nikes. A common theme in today's workplace is group effort, and nothing expresses that more than fitting into the work crowd. Wear your most conservative work clothes, and make sure that you appear classy. Men, always wear a tie, and women, wear pantyhose and a suit with a silk or cotton shirt underneath. Women should make extra sure that they bring an extra pair of pantyhose, in case a runner appears in the pair they are wearing. Shoes should be polished, briefases conservative and dark-colored. If you are carrying a portfolio, make sure that it's leather or some other nice-looking material.
Act the Part
Now that you are dressed to impress, make sure that your behavior matches your style. Always sit upright and avoid drinking coffe or anything that can spill on your clothes before an interview. Women, make sure that you cross your legs when wearing a skirt. Your bearing speaks loads about your character, so make sure that you walk with your head back in a relaxed, confident posture.
Make Eye Contact
There is nothing more impressive than a candidate that looks you straight in the eye. Straightforward glances indicate honesty and a desire to work. Shy or furtive glances indicate hidden motivations. Avoid wearing sunglasses.
Have a Firm Grip
When shaking hands with an employer, make sure to use a firm grip. This indicates strength of character. Basically, strong, bold motions indicate an overacheiver, or a person that employers would want to hire.
Speak with Confidence
The word "humble" does not apply during the interview process. Make sure that you expound upon your former projects and experience at length. Don't be afraid to speak of awards, grants, or anything else that nay help you get the job. There is no time for disclaimers during the short period that you have to make your mark.
Spread Yourself Around
Make sure that you always bring all of the resumes, cards and references materials that an employer could ask for. Often, people assume that the resume that they've sent in is enough. It's not. A virtual barrage of information is better than nothing at all. Bring samples, data and anything else that you think may be of interest to your interviewer.
Plan Ahead
Before heading to your interview, make a list of all the things that you want this employer to know. Tailor your list to the firm you are applying to and its needs. Make a chart of possible questions, and practice answering them in a mirror. Review your materials and experience so that it is fresh in your mind and ready for use.
Don't Look Back
If you are relieved at the conclusion of a successful interview, don't let it show. Instead, pretend that this sort of thing happens every day. Spean little time hanging around once they've finished with you. Make tracks, so that they can record their opinions and write an excellent recommendation to the Hiring Department.
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