Make the most of your interview time
Interviews. For most people a nerve-racking, nail biting experience, but with a little clever research and some good old common sense it is possible to ease the nerves and put yourself at the front of the pack to land yourself that perfect job.
Work on your impression
Research shows that 85% of the verbal communication in an interview situation is forgotten within one hour of the meeting. So what is taken away? It seems that 'overall impression' is the most impacting factor attributed to interview awareness, coupled with written information, such as a CV and other documents that show the prospect's skills and accomplishments. This doesn't mean, of course, that what you say doesn't impact or matter, but it does mean that, given a little sensible tweaking, it is possible to maximise on your 'overall impression'.
So, first things first: Dress appropriately. If you have a tendency to be flamboyant, save it until you have the job and dress conservatively for now. Pay special attention to your shoes – people make conscious and sub-conscious judgements based on details. Wear clothes you feel relaxed and comfortable in.
Be early and smile
Nothing creates a more lasting bad impression than a candidate arriving late, flustered, sweating and apologising. If you are meeting someone at an expo and are feeling rushed, take a moment before talking to the employers on each stand, settling and calming yourself. Make eye contact with and smile at everyone that you meet, from the receptionist, to the other people in the waiting room. Never discount who has influence or who has the manager's ear.
A firm handshake with your interviewer is essential, combined with eye contact and a genuine smile. All of these actions contribute to creating an impression of being confident, personable and acceptable. This first impression can make or break your chances of landing the job based on non-verbal communication. It is also worthwhile noting the interviewer's name and making sure you use it as you shake their hand.
Send the right message
Body language provides unconscious messages to your future employer and you can use it to your advantage. In the interview, if you are sitting, sit up straight with your hands visible either crossed lightly in your lap or on the table. Use non-verbal affirmations as you listen – nod your head and smile (if it's appropriate!) making eye contact all the time. Don't fidget and never interrupt.
Never lie in an interview. Either you will get caught out immediately or once you have landed the job and either way dishonesty does not sit well with employers. It is better to be honest about your skills and be turned down for the job than to lie and be unable to execute it.
Prove your interviewer right
Finally, there is one piece of information that many interview candidates tend to overlook in their nervous state, but it is something worth remembering. It is this: The interviewer already thinks you have the skills and believes you are capable for the job before you meet, which is the reason you have an interview. So simply be confident and prove to them that they were right to think that way.