I. Introduction
Attending an interview can be a nerve wrecking activity. It is natural that one would be scared of attending an interview since in many of the cases, no one is usually certain of what to find. However, being well prepared would help one reduce the tension and anxiety that comes with the uncertainty of what to expect. It is also good that the interviewee be prepared for whatever results that would follow the interview. There are general steps that should be followed to help one prepare well for an interview.
II. Body
A. Stage I- Research
First and for most, the interviewee should do a thorough research on the type of job, what the job entails, and what questions to expect. The knowledge acquired from the research boosts the confidence of a person[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ].
B. Stage II – Be punctual
It is always advisable that you as the interviewee get to the place at least 15 minutes earlier than the designated time. This goes to show that you can always be relied on when it comes to time issues. It also gives one time to familiarize themselves with the environment, and this relaxes one’s mind. Most importantly, wait patiently[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ].
C. Stage III- Dress code
The first impression matters a lot, hence, special care should be taken to ensure that one is appropriately dressed for the part[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ].
D. Stage IV- Attitude
Once at the venue in good time and well dresses, try and remain calm. Let no one see the nervousness. It will also help a lot if one can exude confidence[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ].
E. Stage V- Interview session
Before the interview starts, make sure to shake hands with whomever you are interviewing with. Then, make sure to study the interviewer keenly. This will help know the mood they are in and it will help one know how to relate with them[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ]. Be sure to answer the questions as asked. Keep the answers short and to the point. At the end of the interview, shake hands, thank the interviewer and leave[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ].
F. Stage VI- Thank you note
Finally, write a letter thanking the interviewer for taking their time to chat with you. Let them know that you look forward to working with them[ CITATION Pow08 \l 1033 ]. Make a follow up after two days. If there is no positive response, still thank the interviewer and assure them that you still look forward to working with them in the future. S
III. Conclusion
Attending interviews should not be a nightmare experience any more. More to that, not being taken in after an interview should not discourage one from trying again. It should serve as a learning experience and stepping stone to greater things. However, it is crucial that one remains polite and respectful throughout the whole exercise, for this could be your job on the line. Finally, one should be always have a positive attitude.
Citations
Powers, Dr. Paul." Winning Job Interviews: Reduce Interview Anxiety; Outprepare the Other
Candidates; Land the Job You Love: "Easyread Super Large 18pt Edition. Australia:
ReadHowYouWant.com, 2008. Print.
