Interviews?

I've done it again - and gone two weeks without writing anything. My apologies.

Just recently I've had a couple of interviews for various things and it's got me thinking of all the different types of interviews I've been to. Inside, outside, formal, informal, with strangers, with people you know, one on one, panel, closed setting, open setting, at home, in work place, casual conversation, interrogation, via internet link, via phone, face to face, off the cuff, planned precisely, confirming, vague. Now, i'm not saying i've been to 21 interviews but rather that the combination of situations i've been in, in interviews, compiles this list - quite extensive really.

Despite this, there are some common things between all of them which are good to remember. Now any interview is going to leave you feeling nervous or tense to some degree - for me this is minimal most of the time just because of my personality, that's the kind of easy going gal I am - never afraid to just be myself. So that's the first two points.

1. Feeling a bit tense or nervous is normal (it comes with the territory) and not something to be afraid of

2. Be yourself - they are interested in you not some fake persona, so be the you that you will be

Interviews differ depending on what's being applied for, the type of position, and so while sometimes a formal approach is required, other times it simply would not fit and so casual is best - but this is something for you to work out - within this, the way you address yourself should always be polite.

3. Be polite and well mannered, avoid using any questionable language (even in jokes - at least until you know the people better)

Body language says a lot about somebody - it is the words that we don't speak that finishes the story. So generally, it's best to hold yourself well - not just lope in and slouch down but taking strides and being confident in the responses you're going to give. One of the best ways to do this is to be aware of your appearance and make sure you've done your research.

4. Wear clean, well kept (ie, without holes or stains) clothes - doesn't matter the position, even for a grease monkey this is a good way to start.

5. Know what you're applying for - know your theory if you're applying for a trade, etc. - and know the business you're applying for (this is often 'common' knowledge but don't be afraid to actually read up on it properly if you need to)

There generally comes a point at the end of the interview where they ask you if you have any questions - it's generally best to actually have a question, and preferably not about the wage. If you realy don't have any questions - be honest 'the questions i did have about... you have already answered during the process of this interview'. Show that you're not just going yeah, sounds great - but are thinking about and taking in what they are saying and talking about.

6. Have a response ready for question time.

As a christian, something else I always to before an Interview is pray (and during, and after...) - asking that God would help to guide both my responses and also the interviewers decisions to the best outcome, whether that be for or against me - and that no matter the outcome that He would help me to continue to follow Him first.

There was one more thing - oh yeah, it kind of comes under the polite point, keep eye contact, speak clearly, and most of all - have fun. It's not a dreary time but a possible new beginning, approach it as such and don't be afraid to smile and laugh if it calls for it.

If you would like to ask me about any of my previous interviews, go ahead!

God Bless