How to make a good impression in an interview?

[shadowplay]

I'm interviewing for summer jobs/internships, and I don't have much of a problem on the resume front, but I tend to choke up when it comes to talking -- either face to face or on the phone.

 

Any tips on how to seem less awkward in interviews, or disguise nervousness?

 

I'm terrible at small talk or improvising on the spot when I'm really nervous.

[Trialbyfire]

Don't be ashamed of being nervous. Just state that you are and the interviewer will be more understanding, than if you pretend to be completely confident, then blurt out something different.

[Star Gazer]

You're already very articulate, so you need no help there.

 

My current boss (and others) told me that what impressed them most in my interview was the following:

 

- Firm handshake

- Eye contact

- Sharp suit and polished appearance

- Confidence (fake this with eye contact, posture, and keeping your hands lightly folded together)

- The ability to articulate why I wanted THAT job

 

And... practice. Seriously.

[curiousnycgirl]

Rather than putting so much pressure on yourself that causes you to be so nervous, keep in mind that you are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you.

 

Remember this is a two way street - on the one hand you hope they like you, so that they will extend an offer. On the other hand they hope that you like them, so that you will accept their offer.

 

That is the reality of the situation - chill out, you may not like them!

[Star Gazer]

Rather than putting so much pressure on yourself that causes you to be so nervous, keep in mind that you are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you.

 

Remember this is a two way street - on the one hand you hope they like you, so that they will extend an offer. On the other hand they hope that you like them, so that you will accept their offer.

 

That is the reality of the situation - chill out, you may not like them!

 

Great point!!!

[The Collector]

Get drunk.

[shadowplay]

There's for the advice, guys! I will try all those tips ('cept for the getting drunk one). I agree that practicing is key. I like the idea of changing my focus from what they think of me to what I think of them. That's the same advice often given to people in relationships.

[konfuzd]

Write a list of questions. No matter how thourough the interview, always ask questions. It shows that you are interested.

Do your research on the company, try to ask a specific question about that company.

Write down some key accomplishments shortly before hand, then they will be fresh in your mind, so you can throw them into some situational questions that may come up.

[monkey00]

Interviewers like people that are confident in their abilities and eagerness to learn and acquire new ones while working there.

 

On occasion, I've sucked in the past on improvising on the spot with certain interviews also. But it teaches you and prepares you for future interviews also, and gives you a clue to what kind of questions will be asked of you or what you should ask during the interview. Just give it your all and have no regrets.

 

If you want to practice, I'd suggest setting something up a mock up interview with your friend or colleague and make it as realistic as possible.

 

Remember to always do research on the company and on the position you're applying for, which will keep you prepared.

[Storyrider]

Get drunk.

 

NOoooo! Take half an Atavan.

[Dumbledore]

NOoooo! Take half an Atavan.

Ativan is an excellent idea! Also, Valium is good to take the edge off your nerves, yet leave your mind razor-sharp.

[Storyrider]

Ativan is an excellent idea! Also, Valium is good to take the edge off your nerves, yet leave your mind razor-sharp.

Ha ha, and if you mention it on your resume, spell Ativan correctly.

[b-d]

Always do a little reasarch about the company you are about to go for the interview... if they are prestigious company tell them in your cover letter how you would like to be a part of such company etc. dress accordingly, take out any piercings cover tattoo's and what not, look as if you are going for CEO position.

To be nervous is totaly normal but dont let that stop you from maintaining eye contact, and as someone else said firm handshake etc.

When i went for my interview ( after not working for 7 years) i was nervous as well but the person i was to interview with on the way to the meeting room started talking about his hockey game so that put me at ease, all my nervousnes went away, i must say i did well on the interview because i was hired on the spot, been with the firm ever since.

[2sure]

I have interviewed hundreds of people over the years, and been on many myself. The one good piece of advice I can give you - especially for a summer job or internship (where YOU represent yourself more than your resume can):

 

Eye Contact when greeting and speaking. Not a stare please. Just when you are making your point. For example, when you are listening its good to have your eyes just off center of the speakers face (like their forehead) but when you are speaking, eye contact. Dont wave your hands around.

 

There you have it. Its easy, but takes a little practice.