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If you have been invited for a job interview, then you have already passed the first hurdle – your cover letter and CV have aroused the interest of the recruiters and HR managers. Now you need to meet their high expectations in your interview. Our job interview tips help you with your preparation and in the interview.
Job interview preparation
You need to have a clear understanding of the job requirements. The description in the advertisement serves as a point of orientation. Get additional information about the company and its philosophy on its website. Reassess the strengths listed in your cover letter and ask yourself what else distinguishes you. Use social media channels to find current news and familiarise yourself with the employer's style of communication and image. Contacting a recruitment consultant helps you identify your areas of competence and better understand the listed position and requirements.
Are you currently preparing for a video interview? Here are our 8 top tips for successful video interviews in a compact infographic.
Information about the interviewer
Social media and Google are also ideal tools for obtaining information about your interviewer. Xing, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, kununu, Glassdoor and others, are good sources. Knowledge about the number of individuals participating and their responsibilities in the company helps you prepare for the interview. Here, a recruitment consultant is also beneficial.
Tips for the job interview: clothing and appearance
The first impression counts. Ideally, your chosen clothing should correspond to the clothing style in the company. When in doubt, it is better to be overdressed than dressed too casually. Punctuality is essential. It is best to arrive at least ten minutes before your job interview, giving you time to freshen up, relax, and prepare for the interview. Your initial contact begins with a short, confident handshake. Sweaty hands leave the same negative impression as a weak handshake. It helps to wash your hands with cold water beforehand. Your posture should not be too relaxed or stiff. An upright, seated position works well, and you should maintain eye contact with the person or individuals conducting the interview.
Tips for the job interview: the interview
Don't just orally repeat your cover letter. Practical examples are great for describing your strengths and engaging your listeners. Asking questions demonstrates your self-assurance and interest in the company. Avoid questions to which the answers can be found on the company's website. Other examples of bad questions in your first interview:
- Questions regarding the probationary period
- Early questions about salary - your interest is in the job, not the payment
- Questions about the company's structure demonstrate poor preparation for the interview.
Often, if your interview is a success, salary negotiations follow. Many applicants can be unsure, especially if it is their first job. The following questions are helpful:
- What is your value as an employee? This is determined using your age, education, experience and abilities.
- How high is the starting offer and what is the absolute minimum? How great is your interest in extras, e.g. additional holiday days, company car, company mobile phone, and opportunities for paid further education?
- What arguments are there for your requested salary and to what extent are they in accordance with the company's interests?
Friendliness, assertiveness, and good arguments help in the negotiations. It is not just the monthly salary, but rather the entire package that is decisive. In case of doubt, the honest answer - I'd like another night to sleep on it - is better than a hasty decision.
