0Tips for an Effective Interview
The ultimate aim of young aspiring individuals is to become successful in their future; be it getting hired into a well-established organisation or acquiring admission in a reputed university. The first and the foremost step to your success is to attend your interview with poise and presentable manner. Various research suggests that proficiency in your academics is not just the factor that drives your dream to reality, instead, the way you present yourself in an interview speaks loud about the degree of respect you give for yourself and to those you are intending to meet. The presentable approach in your interview illustrates that you are respectful of the interviewer’s time, serious about the job and is genuinely interested in the position. With a sharp appearance, you can portray yourself as poised, polished and very well prepared to take up your job responsibilities. Being confident about your appearance will enhance your interview experience which will drive your wheels to success.
For any professional job, where well-tailored professional suits are the norm, showing up in anything less will indicate your apathetic attitude towards the company culture by flouting the standards set by them. Therefore, your outward appearance in an interview conveys the first glimpse of your attitude to the employers. Now, let’s have a look at different perspectives in appearance for both men and women for an interview:
Interview attire for men
- A solid-dark colour suit, either black or grey, with a gentle light coloured shirt which is clean and pressed, is a norm for an interview.
- Wear formal leather shoes with mid-calf trouser socks that cover your skin. Make sure it looks clean, polished, and in sync with your attire.
- A conventional approach is preferred while attending an interview, therefore it will be better if you remove any visible piercing, and cover the tattoos, depending upon your position at the organisation.
- Neatly trim your hair and be sure that your facial hair is well-groomed.
- Avoid strong-smelling perfumes and cologne, instead, choose deodorants that precipitate fresh fragrance the moment you enter the room.
- Keep your fingernails neat and trimmed.
- Carry a portfolio or briefcase with your important documents and be sure that you have arranged your relevant documents in a well-organised manner.
Interview attire for women
- A suit in a dark or neutral colour with suitable skirts and pants make you presentable for an interview.
- Tailored blouse in a coordinating and synchronised colour under the jacket will be the perfect norm most of the employers may expect from you.
- Avoid low cut tops and unfit pants with bright or flashy colours.
- Wear formal shoes which are in good condition, and avoid open-toe pumps, sandals, high heeled or platform shoes.
- Be sure you smell fresh but avoid using strong smelling perfumes that may be allergic to your interviewer.
- You must aim for a natural look, and must avoid unnecessary accessories like large earrings, and clanking bracelets because all these can be distracting.
- Carry a neat and compact file with your important documents and be sure that you have arranged your documents in a well-organised manner.
In short, you are what you wear, make it to its fullest!
Now since you have decided your professional attire, be aware of certain other general guidelines that you must follow while attending an interview;
Reach the venue before the stipulated time
Every organisation regardless of its size and fame will be in search of employees who are punctual and regular to their workforce.
- Try to be there 15 minutes in advance so that you will get some time to calm down and get prepared for your interview rounds.
- Always keep in mind that right greetings make a good impression.
- Never fail to greet all the members of staff of the company and express a positive attitude that may serve you with many positive results.
Body Language for an effective interview
- You have to proceed confidently when they call out your name.
- Don’t forget to knock the door before entering and always ask permission to enter with a pleasant smile.
- Make eye contact with your interviewers since it is a sign of openness and interest.
- Have your seat with the permission of the panel, adopt an open posture and sit upright.
- Cover the entire surface of your seat when you sit, otherwise, you will come across as tensed or not sure about yourself.
- Try not to fidget around as it may reflect your anxiety and give out a negative impression.
- Answer all the questions to the point and never try to deviate from the topic. In case if you cannot recollect the right answer, be honest and tell them that you don’t know the answer or you are unsure about it.
Sign off with a gentle gesture
- When you leave after the interview, make sure that you have arranged your chair properly
- Wish the interview panel a good day with a blend of positive attitude and gentle gestures since it would be your last chance to win over them.
Therefore, proficiency in technical knowledge is not just the factor that determines your eligibility, rather if you follow these practical tips in addition to your knowledge, you will definitely create a great impact on interviewers that will enable you to fulfil your dreams and lead a brighter future.
