When the pandemic hit and work-from-home became the new normal, many people thought in-person interviews were a thing of the past. Video interviews have become more popular. Aside from being the safer option for both recruiters and job seekers, they’re also more convenient. You can do them anywhere, anytime.
But as vaccines continue to roll out, some semblance of normalcy returns. This has made companies ask their employees to return to the office. This also means that the recruitment process has somehow gotten back to how it was before the pandemic — with in-person interviews being the norm again.
It may have been ages since you went through an in-person interview. If that’s the case, you might want to review some tips to help ace that upcoming interview. Here are some useful tips:
1. Do your research
This is a given whether you’re having a video or in-person interview. You should know a lot, if not everything about the company — its mission and vision, products or services, and culture. This will help you prepare for questions that the interviewer might ask and give you an idea if the company is a good fit for you.
Researching can be as simple as going to the company’s website and reading through everything you can find there. You can also read articles about the company, especially ones that feature interviews with the management or employees.
Doing your research about a company can give you an edge because it shows that you’re interested in the company and have what it takes to be a valuable team member. This also shows that you’re exerting effort to learn more about the company, which is always a good trait.
2. Work on your confidence
An interview is an opportunity for you to sell yourself to the company. This is your time to shine and show them what you can do. So you must project confidence during the interview.
This can also be the time to address your insecurities. For example, if you have problems with your teeth that make you insecure about facing your interviewers, you can opt for a good teeth replacement option or implants. Good dental work can boost your self-esteem and make you feel more secure when meeting new people. This will also give you the confidence to face your interviewers and show them your best self.
Or perhaps, you can work on your body language. Make sure you sit or stand up straight, make eye contact, and smile when appropriate. All these non-verbal cues can show your confidence even before you start speaking. Working on your confidence is a continuous process, but it will be worth it when you finally get the job you want.
3. Make a good first impression
First impressions last, so it’s important to make a good one. This is especially true for in-person interviews as you’ll meet your potential employer face-to-face. The best way to make a good impression is by showing your dedication and enthusiasm for the job.
Being punctual is also a good way to show that you’re interested in the job and value your time. People got used to the relaxed attitude towards time during the pandemic, but things might be different this time. It would also be helpful if you arrived at the venue a few minutes early so you could have time to compose yourself and relax before the interview starts.
You can also make a good impression by expressing why you want the job and what you can contribute to the company. This is your time to sell yourself, so make sure that you highlight your strengths and accomplishments. Doing this can increase your chances of getting hired as it shows that you know the company and have the right skills for the job.
4. Dress the part
Dress appropriately for the interview. If you’re unsure what to wear, it’s better to err over being overdressed than underdressed. When in doubt, always go for business casual. It’s also important to be well-groomed. Make sure your hair is neatly styled, and your nails are clean.
A study shows that the clothes you wear can help with your performance. So it’s important to choose the right outfit to make you feel confident and comfortable. You can focus on the interview and impress your potential employer. It’s just a simple matter of looking at the part and being prepared for the interview.
5. Be prepared to answer common interview questions
Lastly, it’s important to be prepared to answer common interview questions. This includes questions about your experience, your strengths and weaknesses, and your goals for the future. You can practice with a friend or family to be more comfortable with the questions at home.
It would also be helpful to have a list of questions you can ask the interviewer. This shows that you’re interested in the company and willing to learn more about it. Asking questions also shows that you’re prepared for the interview.
In-person interviews can be nerve-wracking, but it’s important to remember that you have the power to set the tone for the conversation. Be confident, be prepared, and be yourself. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to ace your next in-person interview. These tips will help you ace your upcoming interview and improve your chances of landing the job.
