The interview process is an integral and important part of the professional world today.
Depending on the job you are applying for, the process can be long drawn and complex or it can be simple and quick.
However, all job interview processes are carried out over a template which is more or less general to all interviews. Today, most interviews are divided into four parts, wherein the first interview is a general screening process, often performed by a secretary or assistant.
This article provides essential tips to help you through your first job interview experience.
Overview of First Job Interview
The first interview is usually the initial introduction with the potential employer. Here are some tips to help you get ready for the first interview:
1.) Types of Interviews
The first interview can be a telephone interview or a face-to-face interview, depending on mutual availability.
A phone interview is not the ideal option, but if it is the best choice, at least ensure that you are undisturbed during the call.
Note that the telephone interview is the first selection method for many companies.
2.) The First Interview Matters
Remember that the first interview is just an initial introduction, but it is the steppingstone to all the other interviews.
Do not take the first interview lightly, as there have been countless cases where a potentially great employee did not get hired because they did not take the first interview seriously. Prepare for the first interview as if it is the final interview.
Make sure that you have all the information that is needed for and is relevant to the interview.
3.) Information to Pass On
One important aspect of the first interview is that you should not divulge all the information about yourself at once.
The first interview is mostly undertaken by someone quite low in the firm’s hierarchy and therefore does not require all of your information.
Simply put, give all the information about yourself in brief, and then describe it in detail when you meet the person who requires the detailed information.
Essential Tips to Get Prepared
Here are five key aspects required for success:
1.) Do Your Research! Before your interview, do some basic research on the company, the products/services they offer, their key personnel, competitors, and current industry news.
Review the company website, read business publications, professional associations, and local newspapers.
2.) Learn about the Position Being Hired For – Review the job description thoroughly.
Try to find out more information from a receptionist or other employee who may be able to elaborate on the job. Think about why you would be the best person for the job and what you would bring forward to the company.
This is important because you could get that exact question during your interview.
3.) Practice Interview Questions – If you have never been through the interview process, it is a good idea to practice with a friend or family member.
By practicing, you will be more at ease when similar questions are asked of you.
4.) Dress for Success – First impressions really do count, so make sure you are dressed appropriately for the interview.
That means business attire even when the work environment is casual. The only exception to this might be if you are applying at a trendy or alternative lifestyle shop. Always be clean, neat, and well-groomed.
5.) Arrive Early – Never arrive late for an interview.
It is the quickest way to get turned down for the job. Always leave early enough to ensure your prompt arrival.
In fact, you should be there at least 10 minutes early.
The Ultimate Guide to the First Round Interview Questions
The interview process can be challenging, and it is natural to feel nervous. However, by preparing well and knowing what to expect, you can impress your interviewer and advance to the next stage.
This section provides an ultimate guide to first round interview questions, including tips on how to answer them.
Part 1: During Your First Job Interview
Follow these tips:
1.) Stay Calm and Collected – During your first job interview, it is essential to stay calm and collected, even if you are nervous.
2.) Focus your attention on the interviewer – Take deep breaths if you are feeling flustered and need to collect your thoughts.
Believe in your skills and abilities, even if you have limited experience.
Be honest about your availability, especially if you have extracurricular activities or sports that may conflict with your work schedule.
3.) Make eye contact throughout the interview – Listen carefully to the interviewer, take notes, and ask questions.
4.) Turn your cell phone off during the interview – Thank the interviewer for the opportunity when the interview ends.
Part 2: First Interview Questions and Tips on Answering Them
The following are some common questions asked during a first job interview and tips on how to answer them:
1.) Tell me about yourself – Keep your answer brief and relevant.
Summarize your experience, education, and any other factors that make you a suitable candidate for the job.
2.) Why did you leave your last job or why are you thinking of leaving? Always answer positively, and never speak ill of your current or previous employer.
If you were part of downsizing, put a positive spin on it. For instance, you could say, “Although I was considering leaving my job due to their downsizing, I did not want to make matters more difficult for them.
When I was told that they could no longer afford me, I realized they had presented me with an opportunity to grow and explore new horizons.”
3.) Tell me what you know about our company – Research the company beforehand so that you can answer this question with confidence.
Provide a detailed answer to show that you are interested in the company and its goals.
4.) Why are you interested in working for the company? Tie your answer to the previous question and show how your career goals align with the company’s mission.
Highlight any skills and experiences that make you a good fit for the job.
5.) What is your relevant experience? Be honest and creative, and demonstrate how your skills, education, and experience make you a suitable candidate for the job.
Show how your abilities can benefit the company.
6.) What would your co-workers say about you if they were here? Focus on the positive and give specific examples. Do not dwell on the negative or speak ill of others.
7.) Have you applied elsewhere? Be honest and let the interviewer know that you are looking for the right career move with the right company.
8.) Do you work well under pressure? Your answer should be positive, and you should explain how you handle pressure.
If you thrive under pressure, let the interviewer know. If you work better with less pressure, explain that as well.
9.) What is your greatest strength? This is your chance to sell yourself, so highlight your strengths that are relevant to the job.
Be confident but not arrogant.
10.) What is Your Greatest Weakness? It’s important to be truthful about your weaknesses but try to present them in a positive light. For instance, you could say “I tend to focus too much on details.”
11.) Why Did You Choose This Career? Or Tell Me About Yourself, Your Skills, and Interests? When answering this question, be concise and direct. Discuss your personal and professional values, interests, and skills.
Avoid repeating information you’ve already provided.
12.) Tell Us About Your Educational and Professional Background – While your resume provides this information, this is your opportunity to expand upon it.
The interviewer wants to know about your educational and professional journey, including where you started and how you progressed.
They’ll be particularly interested in your most recent job and why you left.
Part 3: Learning Experience – Learning from Your First Job Interview Experience
The first job interview can be daunting, especially if you have little or no experience with interviews.
If you make mistakes, don’t be discouraged. Instead, learn from them and use them to improve your performance in future interviews.
For instance, if you had difficulty answering a particular question, think about how you could answer it better next time and practice your response.
When you are new to the job market, it is common to ask, “What should I know for my first job interview?”
Do not be too hard on yourself if the first one does not work out. Just learn from your mistakes and move on. You will become more comfortable with interviewing after the first few times.