The First Impression Indeed can be the Last Impression!

Success in Careers | October 4, 2010 | Share

Interviews can be terrifying if you are not prepared for them. It’s always better to imagine the worst case scenario and identify a way to work around it if you want to perform well. A lot of people just go for as many interviews as they can to gain confidence. They may not be interested in the job, but just like to test the waters and see if they can handle the pressure. In a way it prepares them for the interview that they are really worried about.

However not everyone has the luxury of time to attend every interview that is taking place across the country and hence one must be prepared to tackle questions that may catch one off guard. It is ideal that you develop a strategy when facing a panel that is going to bombard you with questions you may or may not know the answers too. And hold on, the result is not based on questions you answer right, but also depends on how you dress, how you tackle the questions and how gracefully you conduct yourself.

Various organization have a number of rounds and you have to prepare yourself differently to face each round with confidence. They may check your intellect in the first round, while in the next they will focus on behaviour and your ability to manage stress, it differs from one organization to another and it only helps if you are prepared to handle the worst.

A few things you should keep in mind have been detailed below, pay attention to a few tips and you could come out a winner:

Resume: Make sure your resume is crafted in a manner that is simple to read and easy to comprehend. In terms of content as well as layout you need to ensure that you come across as someone who is disciplined, methodical and professional. There are a number of websites that can help you with a template that fits the bill. Mentioning your hobbies also helps so as to make the panel understand that you are interested in co curricular activities as well. Glorify your achievements and ensure that all your past work experiences are mentioned in a manner that explain what you are good at.

Strengths and weaknesses: Preparation and rehearsal and important before you face a panel of interviewers. There are going to be some standard questions that they may ask you, like what are your strengths and what are your weaknesses. Make sure you have rehearsed the answer. No one is a better judge of your capabilities that yourself. Also ensure that your weaknesses are somehow disguised to portray strength.

Dress to impress: Dress appropriately. The first impression is often the last and you do not want the panel to dismiss you in their minds even before you have had a chance to prove yourself. Make sure your attire is in line with the organizations culture. If you are interviewing at an advertising agency or a media house you could do away with a simple pair of jeans and a T-shirt, however if it’s an interview at a MNC, you will have to ensure that you wear your best trousers, a well ironed shirt and a good tie. For women a sophisticated pair of trousers, a shirt or a simple salwar kameez can go a long way.

Know about the company: Make sure you have done your research and are well versed with the company’s vision, mission and goal statements. Make sure you read up and know why they are in the news nowadays.

Preparing yourself is important to any interview. You do not want to come across as someone who leaves everything up to chance. Be confident, smile and you will land the job of your dreams.

Sidhant Goel