So you got that crucial job interview, congratulations! But the hard part still lies ahead of you and your stress levels have suddenly skyrocketed.

You have millions of questions of what and what not to do or say during the interview.

The following tips will assist and guide you to reduce your stress levels and help you walk into that interview room well prepared.

• Be mentally fresh – don’t finish a huge presentation just before you walk into the interview room.
• Ensure that you have done research on the company – this will help you from asking stupid questions and being unprepared.
• Ensure that you know the address and exact time of the interview – always come 5 minutes early. No more, no less.
• Have a clear understanding of what the duties of the job are – maybe you don’t even want this job?
• Be well groomed – clean hair, clean nails, clean clothes are essential.
• Try and find out who will interview you and memorise their names – or just pay attention when you meet them!
• Take an extra copy of your CV – they may not have on them and you will look prepared and helpful if you can supply the interviewer with one.

Here are some dos and don’ts during the interview

• When you greet them, look them straight in the eye and give a confident handshake
• Maintain eye contact with the interviewer(s)
• Smile – it’s contagious
• Pay attention and listen to the questions
• Sit up straight and don’t fidget with your hands or chew gum
• Answer questions to the point, and speak clearly – don’t waffle
• Exchange information – ask questions (you have the right to do so)
• Sell your strengths and skills – remember that this is what they’re interested in
• Don’t discuss salary unless the interviewer brings it up
• At the end of the interview, ask the interviewer what the next stage will be, for example “When can I expect to hear from you?”
• Thank the interviewer politely for the opportunity to meet with you
• Writing a thank you letter after the interview is another way of marketing yourself and reminding them of you

Always remember that you are a unique person. Don’t waste your time wondering about the other candidates attending the same interview. Spend your valuable energy on something constructive and positive. You have to go into the interview believing in yourself

Source: Health24

Pics: shutterstock