Even the smartest, most qualified and well experienced TRAINER needs to prepare for their job interview. Interview skills are learned, and there are no second chances to make a great first impression. These are some interview tips that will teach you how to answer interview questions and convince the TC/TP that you are the one for the job.
1. Confirm the scheduled time if needed
Before the day of your interview, confirm the date and time so you’re sure to pick up when the call comes in. Writing down the scheduled time, adding it to your calendar or setting it as a reminder on your phone are great ways to make sure you are ready for the scheduled interview. Your punctuality can help make a good impression on your prospective employer.
2. Charge your phone before interview
If you’re using your cell phone for the interview, make sure it’s fully charged and in working condition the day of your interview. It’s also a good idea to do a test call. Have someone call you to make sure your line is clear and that your phone can properly accept calls. Be ready 10-15 minutes before the actual interview time to ensure your phone is working properly.
3. Prepare your answers to common interview questions
After researching common interview questions, consider how you’ll answer each. Write your answers in a list, highlighting specific experiences you can draw on to demonstrate your answer. Because you’ll be on the phone, it can be helpful to have notes in front of you during the interview to help you answer. Rehearse your answers without looking at your notes for more practice.
4. Dress well for the interview
Interview, whether it’s online or offline, you should be well dressed for the interview. Even though you’ll be speaking over the phone, consider dressing as if you were having an in-person interview. It is important to know what to wear to an interview and to be well-groomed. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking. This, along with sitting up tall, can help boost your confidence during the interview so avoid sitting in your pajamas or slouching on the couch.
5. Find a quiet environment for the interview
Find a quiet space where you’ll be able to hear the interviewer loud and clear. This will make sure you listen to everything they have to say and that you get all of the information you need.
Turn off the television or music, and close the door to the space you’re using for your interview. Remove any background noise and interview in a quiet space to demonstrate your professional courtesy and let your interviewer know you’re taking this job interview seriously.
6. Practice good nonverbal communication
It's about demonstrating confidence: seating straight, making eye contact. That first nonverbal impression can be a great beginning.
7. Listen
From the very beginning of the interview, your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you are not hearing it, you are missing a major opportunity. Good communication skills include listening and observing your interviewer.
8. Speak clearly during interview
Carefully articulate your words and take your time as you answer each question. Interviewers may be better able to understand you and observe your communication skills. This skill is important in any industry, so demonstrating your excellent communication skills during the interview process can help your interviewer determine your abilities. You should use professional language during the interview. Be aware of any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual orientation—these topics could send you out the interview very quickly.
9. Don't be too reserved
Attitude plays a key role in your interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence, professionalism, and modesty. Even if you're putting on a performance to demonstrate your ability, overconfidence is as bad, if not worse, as being too reserved.
10. Don't be too familiar
The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is not about making a new friend. It’s important to be respectful and kind throughout your interview. This professional tone can leave a good impression on your interview, and they’ll remember that as they consider their hiring decision. It is important to bring energy and enthusiasm to the interview and to ask questions, but do not overstep your place as a candidate looking for a job. If you’re hired, they’ll also be your future colleague, so it’s important to be professional and eloquent in your tone and answers.
11. Ask questions
When asked if they have any questions, most candidates answer, "No". Wrong answer. Asking questions also gives you the opportunity to find out what exactly your job description is. The best questions come from listening to what you're asked during the interview and asking for additional information like is there any task other than training or something else.
12. Prepare questions before interview you want to ask
Interviewers want to know you’re interested in the position you’re applying for. Display your interest by asking insightful questions at the end of the interview. Some questions you could ask include:
● What will my daily responsibilities include?
● What is the workplace environment like?
● Is there anything other than training, I need to do at job?
13. Consider your salary expectations
Many TC/TP ask about your salary expectations. Research the average salary in your JOBROLE when considering what you’d like to get paid, but be reasonable. It’s also wise to offer them a salary range within 20,000. For example, “I’m hoping to make between 20,000 and 25,000.” This will let your interviewer know that you are flexible.
14. Don't appear too desperate
When you interview with the "please, please hire me" approach, you appear desperate and less confident. Reflect the three Cs during the interview: cool, calm, and confident.
When you’re better prepared for your interview, you’re more likely to have a favorable outcome. Regardless of what happens, preparing and having an online interview is a great learning experience for future interviews of the same nature.
You know you can do the job; make sure the interviewer believes you can, too. One way to do this is by preparing well-thought-out answers to questions they're most likely to ask. Need some help with that? Register JOBSAARTHI for free. As a member, you'll get interview insights, career advice, and job search tips so you can come across as a strong, viable candidate. From ice breakers ("Tell me about yourself") to the nitty-gritty ("What's your biggest weakness?"), JOBSAARTHI's expert advice can help you craft answers that highlight your skills and eagerness to get the job.