A job interview is your one big chance to show an employer just how fit your resume is for their hiring needs. Whether it’s your stellar work history or your exemplary cover letter that caught their attention, clearly they want to learn more about who you are and what you can do for them in a specific capacity. There are a couple different ways to approach an interview, depending on the unique situation. Should you keep things loose and go with the flow? Or should you stay focused on your goals, your skills, and your messaging to make a good impression? Here are a few tips to help you find the right attitude for your next job interview.
Finding a Balance
Overall, it’s important to find a balance between these two extremes in attitude during an interview. Of course, you want to be prepared and able to speak to your most impactful talking points but beware of coming across as overly rehearsed and stiff. You should be flexible enough to answer questions that you had not prepared for, and able to interact and engage naturally with your interviewer to stay engaged in the conversation.
On the other hand, you need to take things seriously so interviewers know you aren’t just there to joke around. Employers look for people who they will enjoy working with but who they can also count on to get the job done. To help you find your balance, here are a few tips to strike the right balance.
Get Confident
Confidence in a job interview goes a long way toward showing your employer that they can have confidence in you as well. If you are naturally nervous, many people often are in an interview, do a few facial stretches and shake out any jitters before you walk in. Meet your interviewer from a standing position and you’ll feel less awkward at that first handshake. Make sure you present yourself professionally but are still comfortable in what you wear. Do what you need to do to be confident from the moment you walk in the door.
Prepare So That You Don’t Need to Prepare
You should know your resume better than the back of your hand so that you are not searching for the most relevant experiences and skills that can showcase your ability to be successful in the position you are applying for. Review the job description thoroughly as well so that you can talk to key pain points you can address and value that you will bring to the role. Research the company to learn more about what they do and how you can help. Don’t let a failure to do your homework cause any misgivings on the part of the interviewer. This will pave the way for you to be flexible yet focused in the interview and make the best impression possible.
Work with a Leading Staffing Agency in Middle Tennessee
At All-Star Personnel, we can get you prepared for your next interview so you are walking in the door with confidence. Contact our great team today to work with a leader in staffing in Middle Tennessee!
