Grasping the concept of job interviews can be challenging, especially when you’re fortunate enough to land one.
The job market today resembles a complicated terrain with factors like economic instability, low salaries, and increased competition for job openings.
As you prepare for a job interview, there are several essential strategies to keep in mind to enhance your chances of landing the position.
A careers specialist has revealed how individuals can excel in a job interview within the first five minutes, and this time, it doesn’t involve a coffee cup.
Without intending to alarm you, the assessment begins the moment you enter the room (assuming it’s an in-person interview).
As per the insights from global recruitment consultancy Robert Walters, the initial impression is vital, and thus, their primary advice is to acknowledge that the interview process commences the moment you step out of your house.
During your journey to the interview, you might encounter individuals who are part of the company you aim to join.
Even while lining up for a coffee before heading into the building, the person standing next to you could potentially be a future colleague.
Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain professionalism and courtesy as soon as you leave home.
One anonymous interviewer shared: “I once observed someone outside our building, smoking intensely and loudly complaining on their phone about the early time of their meeting, questioning why they were even there.
“To my surprise, when I arrived at my next interview, the person who was complaining outside turned out to be my next candidate! Certainly not an ideal first impression…”
Every person you meet on the interview day should be treated as if they are part of the hiring process. This includes the receptionist and anyone you encounter in the elevator.
The standard guidelines remain: arrive on time, but not excessively early, and create a positive initial impression with a smile, eye contact, and a confident demeanor.
Checking the company’s social media pages can provide insights into their dress code.
In terms of securing an interview, a hiring expert highlighted an important element to exclude from your resume.
“If I see a picture, that’s going in the ‘no’ pile,” says Stacie Haller, chief career advisor at Resume Builder.
With over three decades of experience in the recruitment sector, she shared with CNBC the reasons for avoiding headshots on resumes today.
She explained that including a picture might inadvertently lead to ageism or quick judgments based on appearance, and it implies that ‘the applicant is not in tune with current practices’.