How to ACE the Job Interview—the First Time

Do you think of a job interview as a nerve-wracking experience? Do you feel afraid, negative or pessimistic about your chances of succeeding? Maybe you say to yourself, "Other people always get the jobs; why not me?" It doesn't have to be that way. If a hiring manager invites you in for an interview it's a good sign. It means you've said something in your cover letter that motivated the employer to call you. So rather than letting fear and worry drive you, focus on the positive aspects of a job interview and get it 'right' the first time. Here's how:

• Keep in mind the hiring manager is a person—just like you.

Meet and greet him or her with a firm handshake, a friendly smile, and eye-to-eye contact. These first few moments can make or break the interview. Don't discount them just because they are routine gestures whenever you meet someone new. People can tell immediately if you are sincere or merely going through the motions. Are you the genuine article or a cardboard cutout? Make this experience count for yourself and for the other person. Then you can settle into the interview with peace of mind.

• Present your best self so you will leave a favorable impression that will linger.

Dress appropriately for a professional interview. This means a suit or sport coat and slacks and polished shoes for men and a dress or jacket and skirt or pants for a woman. Press your clothes the night before and choose accessories that are simple and tasteful. Avoid flashy jewelry, dangling earrings, gaudy belt buckles and so on. You'll want the hiring manager's attention on you, not on your accessories.

• Show up prepared to persuade the employer that you are the one for the job.

Be ready to share practical and specific examples of your ability, skills, and experience. Instead of talking in generalities about your character traits (responsible, compassionate, decisive, friendly), display those attributes by sharing a 'true story' from your career, education, or personal life that illustrates them.

Refer to a time when you resolved a critical problem. Did you step in and handle a crisis or settle a conflict between two employees or make a last-minute decision that determined an important outcome? Provide a word picture for the hiring manager to envision. This will help determine whether or not you are the ideal person for the job.

• Close the interview with a hearty 'thank you' and follow up with a written note of appreciation.

One of the most neglected phrases in the English language is 'thank you.' People are remembered for their expression of gratitude—and they're also remembered for not expressing it. The process that takes you from job interview to job placement flows over the bridge of gratitude. Don't neglect this important step—the one that will help you "ace" the job interview—the first time.
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Author: Jimmy Sweeney
Job Interview Secret Gets You Hired Fast