Additional interview skills

Don’t think your presentation ends with your interview. If you want to make first impressions last, here are a few more tips.

Bidding adieu    We do understand that an interview is as dreaded as a visit to the dentist. And when it is over, there is a need to get away as quickly as possible. But hey! Hold on! You need to leave the interview as gracefully as you entered it     graciously and with dignity. Shake hands firmly, say "Thank you" and leave with a smile of confidence. No questioning nervous glances backwards.

Thank you gesture    You may or may not get the job but don’t act like a sourpuss. Make it a point to follow up after the interview. Don’t forget to send a thank you note or e-mail to the people concerned. You don’t want to fade away from their mind completely, do you?

Benefits of this lesson

An interview is a momentous thing. But by just following a few simple tips outlined in this lesson:

• You have acquired that much needed confidence and poise to sail through it smoothly.
• You have also learnt that forewarned is forearmed    preparation both mental and physical is required for an interview.
• You have understood the importance of first impressions. You need to perfect it by using the above tips.

Activity suggested

Gather a group of friends who, like you, are looking for a job, or applying for a new one, or planning for a career enhancement. Hold a mock interview. Prepare a list of questions and grade each other from the moment you walk into the interview room. Notice and comment on everything    the walk, the talk, the dress, and the body language. Exchange notes. This will not only help you face the situation when it comes. It will also boost your confidence.