How to prepare for a job interview

Summary

This video provides essential tips for preparing for a job interview, focusing on making a strong first impression with body language such as a firm handshake, eye contact, and an active sitting posture. It highlights three key topics typically covered in interviews: your background, motivation for applying, and competencies. The STAR method is recommended for showcasing skills, and engaging in conversation with the interviewers is advised. The video encourages thorough preparation to help you answer common interview questions effectively, improving your chances of success and leaving a lasting positive impression.

Takeaways

• 😀 The job interview starts with a strong first impression, including smiling, eye contact, and a firm handshake.
• 😀 Nonverbal communication, such as body language and sitting posture, plays a crucial role throughout the interview.
• 😀 The interviewer will ask about your background and experiences to understand your life course.
• 😀 Expect questions about your motivation, including why you want the job and why the company interests you.
• 😀 Be prepared to demonstrate your competencies using the STAR-method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• 😀 A positive conversation dynamic is key to making a strong impression and improving your chances of success.
• 😀 Providing short and powerful answers helps maintain the flow of conversation and engages the interviewer.
• 😀 Asking questions during or at the end of the interview shows your interest and engagement with the process.
• 😀 Being well-prepared allows you to focus on nonverbal communication and have the best possible interview experience.
• 😀 Practicing with a friend in mock interview scenarios can help you refine your responses and improve your confidence.
• 😀 Researching the company and its activities beforehand strengthens your answers about your motivation and interest in the job.

Q & A

What is the most important part of a job application?

The most important part of a job application is the job interview, where you can showcase your qualifications and fit for the role.

How can you make a good first impression in a job interview?

To make a good first impression, you should smile, make eye contact, and give a firm handshake. Research shows that these behaviors contribute to a positive initial impression.

Why is a strong handshake important during a job interview?

A strong handshake is often associated with confidence and is positively linked to better evaluations by interviewers.

What role does nonverbal communication play in a job interview?

Nonverbal communication is crucial during an interview. Examples include maintaining eye contact and adopting an active sitting position, which helps convey engagement and confidence.

What are the three main topics typically discussed in a job interview?

The three main topics are your life course (background and experience), your motivation for the job, and your competencies (skills and personal qualities).

How can you effectively demonstrate your motivation during an interview?

You can demonstrate your motivation by articulating why you want to work for the company and why the position appeals to you. Additionally, showing knowledge of the company’s activities enhances your answer.

What is the STAR method, and how does it help in job interviews?

The STAR method is a framework for answering competency-based questions. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and helps you structure responses that clearly demonstrate your skills and experience.

How can you improve the conversation dynamic during an interview?

You can improve the conversation dynamic by providing short, powerful answers. This allows the interviewer to ask follow-up questions and keeps the conversation flowing smoothly.

What should you do to engage interviewers during the conversation?

You should engage all interviewers by asking them thoughtful questions during or at the end of the interview. This shows interest and encourages a more interactive dialogue.

How can you prepare for a job interview effectively?

Effective preparation involves practicing your answers to common interview questions, especially those about your background, motivation, and competencies. Rehearsing with a friend who plays the role of the interviewer can also help you feel more confident.