Tips on how to Rock your Interview!

As an assistant manager with Vector Marketing Canada, I have personally had the opportunity to interview hundreds of applicants for the position. Through these interviews I have seen people do extremely well and others that have substantial room for improvement. I have composed a small list of things that will help you stand out in any interview and put you in a better spot to be considered for the position. Some of these things are common sense, but it is the little things that make up your first impression.

Turn your cellphone off and put it away. Having your cellphone out during an interview is not only very rude, it shows you are not able to be present. If your excuse is that you use it to tell time, now is a perfect time to invest in a watch, or at very least borrow one for the interview.

Review your resume. Your resume should highlight your skills, abilities and experience. It should not however highlight misspelled words, coffee stains and unreadable formatting. If you are a student your school may offer guidance on building solid resumes.

Dress professionally. I am not suggesting buying a brand new outfit every time you have an interview, but rather, make the most of what you have. Nothing is more tacky than wearing stained, smelly, hole ridden clothes to an interview. Always iron your outfit to make sure you stand out above the rest, plus dressing professionally builds confidence in yourself and makes your interview better.

Be on time. You only have one chance to make a first impression, give yourself extra time just in case of traffic or any other circumstances. It is better to be a few minutes early than risk coming in late.

Solid handshake. Learn how to give a good handshake, no one likes shaking hands with someone who feels like a dead fish. Make proper eye contact and do a firm handshake. You can even practice with friends and parents to increase confidence and get input.

Steer away from clichés. Interviewers have heard too many people say “I’m just really good at selling” or “I’m an overachiever”. When given the opportunity to share instead of a vague answer give concrete examples from your own life that relate to the question.

Ask good questions. Not only does it lets the interviewer know you are listening, but also makes you stand out from the crowd.

Have a good attitude and smile.

Through implementing these simple steps you are able to come out a cut above the rest and increase your chances of being accepted for the position.

Rachelle Hoogendoorn