“ In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.” – Coco Chanel
Interviews can be scary, nerve-racking, and stressful. They can also be entirely the opposite. An interview might seem like you’re being put on the spot but once you realize that half the battle is in your head, it’s pretty smooth-sailing. Agreed, it’s easier said than done, which is why we have prepared a list of tips in collaboration with HR experts, recruitment agencies, and headhunters in Bangalore.
Start by researching the company a few days earlier. Your interviewers may not quiz you about their organisation but it is always good to have context. It will definitely help you construct better answers to their questions. Speaking of better answers, we always feel it’s a great idea to practice common interview questions such as, “Tell us a bit about yourself.”, “Why do you think you deserve this job?”, and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”. You can’t possibly prepare for the unexpected so you might as well be surefooted when it comes to the expected. It’s also recommended that you have a clear dialogue prepared in your head that summarises your professional history and the work you’ve done most recently.
When it come to first impressions, you must do all you can that is in your control. Not only because we are recruiters and headhunters in fashion, but dress to impress. In the words of Ralph Lauren, ‘Style is about quality, integrity and timelessness. It is free of trends but always feels fresh & new.” You don’t need a wardrobe full of the latest clothes. Pick out something that reflects your personality and attitude. If it helps, keep your interview outfit ready the previous night. Wear somber, formal colours and don’t forget to iron! (This advice is obviously a general one. Keep in mind your broad industry dress code while choosing your outfit).
Your outfit is one thing. Even as Tommy Hilfiger says, “You want to look fashionable and put-together. Not like you hit the sales rack every season.” This makes how you carry yourself essential, as opposed to solely your attire. Ensure your body language also radiates positivity. Be respectful to everyone you interact with in the company. Be authentic. Even while answering questions, always be truthful, clear, and concise. Choose your words carefully but do not try to lie yourself out of a corner because the people in front will pick up on it in an instant. Lastly, however tempted you are to, do not speak ill of your previous employers. At times you might even be probed, but filter your thoughts and do not put them in negative light.
These aren’t instructions but more of guidelines and advice that has also helped us over the years. These small steps help build confidence, and confidence is key to your performance, especially in an interview. After all, you can’t determine your competitors. Coco Chanel gives us the wisdom we need yet again as “every day is a fashion show and the world is the runway.” So the least and most you can do is make sure you put your best foot forward and walk into the room with the swagger only you have.
