Key Points to Consider in Job Interviews

To have a successful job interview, you need to create a good impression in a limited time and provide reasons for the person or people you are interviewing with to prefer you. Not knowing how to use body language, dressing inappropriately, or making mistakes like talking too little or too much can cause you to miss out on a job that is actually perfect for you and that you could do very well. We hope that by considering our research on key points to consider in job interviews, you can increase your chances of finding a job.

1. First Impression and Appearance

The first impression related to your appearance sets the stage for the rest of the interview. Being clean and well-groomed reflects your professional seriousness.

• Professional Attire: Your appearance is one of the most important elements that reflect your professionalism. Be clean and well-groomed, and dress appropriately for the position you are applying for. It's good to find out in advance how you should dress. While some sectors require formal attire like suits, more creative sectors may have a more relaxed dress code. Make sure your clothes are ironed and clean.

• Facial Expression: Avoid frowning and unnecessary smiling. Even if you feel tense, have a slight smile on your face. The person you are interviewing with will make some decisions about your appearance and personal style within the first 30 seconds. Therefore, it is important to appear confident, alert, and cheerful from the very beginning.

2. Timing and Preparation

Arriving on time for a job interview and making the right preparations show your seriousness and interest in the position.

• Be On Time: Never be late for a job interview. Adjust your departure time from home considering possible setbacks (traffic, public transport delays, etc.). It's best to arrive a little early at the interview location. This way, you have time to acclimate to the environment and calm your nerves. Arriving early also reinforces the feeling that you are in control.

• Company Research: Research the company before going to the interview. Being knowledgeable about the company's mission, vision, culture, recent projects, and industry position allows you to contribute more meaningfully to the discussions during the interview. This also shows your enthusiasm for the job and that you are a serious candidate.

3. Communication Skills

Your verbal and non-verbal communication are the most important parts of the interview.

• Honesty and Trust: Be open and honest. Don't promise things you can't deliver. Speak confidently, but never come across as arrogant or conceited. Even when showcasing your most trusted skills, don't overdo the confidence.

• Body Language: Stand up straight and maintain eye contact with the person you are interviewing with. Your body language conveys more than your words. Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting with your feet, or being in constant motion. These actions can give the impression that you are stressed and closed off.

• Storytelling: You will need to talk about your career, so prepare a speech accordingly. Focus on your most recent job, whether it was a previous position or one you are still working in. Also, prepare a brief and smooth summary of your previous work experiences. Especially highlight your experiences related to the position you are applying for. This is an opportunity to differentiate yourself from other candidates and show that you possess the qualities the employer is looking for.

• Be Prepared: Be ready for questions about why you find the job appealing and why you consider yourself suitable for this position. You may not have enough material to provide a satisfactory explanation, and if necessary, you should indicate this to the person you are interviewing with. Still, try to come up with a few points to mention.

4. Asking Questions and Managing Dialogue

The interview is not just about answering questions; it is also an art of establishing a dialogue.

• Ask the Right Questions: Towards the end of the interview, ask questions about the job description, responsibilities and authorities you will have, and the company's expectations from you. Don't hesitate to ask when and how you will be informed about the results once the interview is over. However, be careful not to ask this question in a way that seems suspicious or insecure. Listen carefully to everything that is said to you. This way, you won't fall into the trap of asking questions that have already been answered.

• Energy and Enthusiasm: You should appear energetic, enthusiastic, and excited during the interview; you should ask questions when necessary. However, remember that you are there for a job interview and do not overstep your boundaries. Adjust the level of sincerity according to the demeanor of the person you are interviewing with.

• Stay Calm: Some things may be done to test or challenge you, and some questions may be asked in an aggressive manner. You should always try to think quickly, remain calm, and be polite. Remember, your reactions to such questions show how you behave in crisis situations.

5. Additional Points to Consider

• Salary Discussion: Do not bring up topics like salary and benefits during the first interview stage. This can create the impression that you are only focused on money. These topics are usually discussed in the second interview or during the offer stage.

• Do Not Badmouth the Past: Do not speak negatively about your previous workplaces or managers. This not only hinders you from presenting a professional stance but also leads your future employer to form a negative impression of you. Focus on the positive aspects of your past work experiences.

• Go Alone: You are going for a personal interview, do not take anyone with you. Having family or friends accompany you is unprofessional.

6. Documents and Final Impression

Some small preparations you make before and after the interview reinforce your professionalism.

• Necessary Documents: Even if you have sent your resume in advance, keep a copy with you in case the person you are interviewing with does not have it. Carry the document in a stylish manner, for example, in a folder that also contains a notebook and pen, and any reference letters you may have.

• Attitude and State of Mind: You may not be very hopeful, feeling distressed because you have been looking for a job for a long time and may really need the job you are applying for. However, there should not be an air of "Please, please hire me" on your face and in your demeanor. This reflects a sense of desperation and may disturb the employer. Act like a confident and equal candidate.