THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2014
PAGE 30
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
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Improve interview skills with these tips
HANNAH BARLING
entertain@kansan.com
Landing an interview is only step one of getting a job. Mastering the interview is another ball game.
Here are five tips on how to own a job interview and knock out those difficult questions with ease.
Act natural
Making a great first impression
First impressions are extremely important in the job market and you want to present yourself with the right amount of confidence. When walking into an interview, keeping your chin up and having a smile on your face are both signs of self confidence and strength. Introduce yourself and make it a point to remember the interviewer's name as soon as they say it. Addressing them by name and with a smile will go a long way.
Nerves can be in full gear leading up to and throughout the interview. Stay calm; treat the interview as more of a conversation rather than a structured question and answer session. Employers are not only looking for skills and talent, but also what kind of person you are and how you may fit into the workplace.
Pay attention
Make sure to look the interviewer in the eyes to show you are listening and actively engaging in the conversation. Pay careful attention to the questions the interviewer is asking to ensure you answer them fully and with certainty.
Don't over-prepare
Sure there are the typical questions that can be prepared for that any employer would ask. For example: Why do you think you're fit for our company? What are some of your strengths? What has led you up to this point in your career?
But, most of these questions could be answered on the spot just as well as if you'd prepared hours before.
Carefully listening to the questions and being relaxed will allow for you to answer them truthfully and confidently.
Know what makes you stand out
When the difficult questions do come along, don't panic. Reflect on your talents and accomplishments when preparing for an interview. Getting a job is a competition; you are up against other interviewees who are after the exact same thing. Know what to say when asked your best accomplishment is or what skills or insight you may have that others don't. Talent and experience are only part of getting hired. Show employers your uniqueness and prove to them why you are the best candidate.
Edited by Chelsea Mies
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What's the hardest question you've been asked in an interview?
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"That's tough, I'd say the question when they ask what I see myself doing in five to 10 years."
Allison James, junior, Abilene, Kan.
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Whitney Antwine, senior, Dallas, Texas
"The hardest question for me in interviews is when they ask me what my biggest weakness is, because it's a trap. They want you to turn one of your weaknesses into a positive, but most times people just freeze up."
Dietrich Jenkins, junior, Kansas City, Mo.
"What are your views on censorship of the internet?"
Dietrich Jenkins, junior, Kansas City, Mo.
Abby Hadel, junior, Lenexa, Kan.
"One time I was asked 'What is the one thing that makes you stand out against the other applicants?' and I felt awkward because I don't want to seem cocky but you want to be confident at the same time."
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