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5 Tips for a Successful Interview

Looking to ace your next interview? Certain things must be in place in order to land your next job. Use these tips and watch your career advance for the better.

Research the Company
Yes, you’ve conducted some type of research already while job hunting, but now that you’ve landed an interview it’s important to make yourself more knowledgeable about the company. Visit their website and find out what their mission statement is. Don’t be surprised if it comes up as one of the questions during your interview.

Dress for Success
Before you utter any words to share your plethora of knowledge for the job, the first impression the interviewer(s) will have for you is based on your appearance. It’s best to stay in a “safe” zone when it comes to interview attire.

For ladies, if you’re wearing a skirt, try to keep it no higher than two inches above the knee. For men, slacks, suit and tie definitely work.  Accessories and jewelry should be kept to a minimum; nothing too sparkly or excessive. Unless it’s a laid back company, there’s no need for formal business wear.

Maintain a Healthy Confidence Level
After your appearance, your level of confidence is one of the first things interviewers see in a candidate. Of course, you may be nervous, and that’s okay. Keep in mind that it speaks volumes that you stood out from the rest of the applicants and got called for an interview – that’s plenty to be confident about. Once the questions start rolling, it’s your chance to convince them you’re the one for the job.

Be sure to make eye contact and smile. This will help ease nervousness and keep you focused. Don’t forget that firm handshake!

Don’t be the Only One Answering Questions
Before your interview, think about things you’d like to know about the company. What kind of training is provided? Are there flex schedule options? What about promotion possibilities? These are just some of the questions to ask when the opportunity comes. After all, you don’t want to walk into a new company blindsided. Having questions of your own can be very impressive to the interviewer and beneficial to you.

Be Prepared to Say Why You Stand Out From the Rest. Use Key Words!
This is something you really have to think about before the interview. Why did you apply for the job? What are you bringing to the table that makes a real difference? Be honest with yourself and the recruiting company. They are asking this question more often than ever. So if you’re a team player, mission oriented or have a unique background, such qualities are appreciated and definitely stand out.

Interested in writing for our Guest Blogger series? Email ktoney@perkconsulting.net
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Musu Bangura, founder of New3Creation Services, works in personnel administration. She is an author for HubPages and has guest blogged for featured authors on WordPress. In addition to her full-time job and freelancing, Musu spends her time conducting research on wellness and the use of natural based products. Musu holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Science and is an Air Force veteran. She loves reading, traveling and spending time with family. To see more of Musu’s work and information, check out New3Creations and her wellness page.