Whether you are preparing for a scholarship interview, university entrance interview, or job interview, it can be nerve wracking! Here are 7 tips to guide you through that process and to help you prepare for your next interview.
Read up beforehand
Read up on the scholarship, university, job position, or company beforehand. The interviewer will be impressed if they can tell you are well-prepared and know your stuff. It shows that you’re really interested in this opportunity and that you’ve done your research.
Prepare questions
Often, at the end of interviews, the interviewer will ask you if you have any questions for them. After having done your research, prepare some questions to ask the interviewer. It could be about the atmosphere at the job, or whether they’ll let you know the results by phone or through e-mail. This, again, shows that you’re interested and want to know more.
Be aware of the dress code
Find out what the dress code for the interview is. You could have been notified by e-mail, or you can ask friends or family who have had similar interviews. If you can’t find the information anywhere, it is best to over dress a little bit than to under dress. This demonstrates your level of professionality.
Know your application and resume well
Most of the information your interviewer knows about you comes directly from your application and resume. This means that they’ve more than likely prepared some questions based on those. Be sure to review your application and resume before going in, and think of possible questions you may be asked, so that you are better prepared for any questions that come your way.
Practice your handshake
This is a simple one, but it can go a long way! Be sure to shake the interviewer’s hand at the beginning of the interview, but also remember to do it on your way out.
Make eye-contact and smile
Throughout the interview, try to remember to make eye-contact and smile. Having a welcoming attitude shows the interviewer that you would represent the scholarship well, contribute well to the university’s atmosphere, or fit in with their team.
Relax, be yourself!
As stressful as interviews can be, relax and be yourself! Your interviewer already knows the basics about you from your application and resume. Now, they’re trying to get to know you on a personal level, gauge how passionate and confident you are, and determine whether you are a great fit for the opportunity. So, take a deep breath, relax, and do your best!