When a job interview requires you to appear for a one-on-one discussion with the hiring manager or any senior person from the company, it is referred to as a personal interview. A person’s self-introduction for an interview usually sets the tone and can make or break the discussion that follows.
The interviewer judges the candidate not only for the professional competencies but also on parameters such as interpersonal skills and body language etc. Hence, it is important to put your best foot forward in a personal interview. Here are some tips that would make it easier for you.
1.Be proficient in the language that you converse in:
Your communication skills and language proficiency play a great role in displaying your prowess and knowledge. By attempting to converse in a language that you are not fluent in, you can jeopardize the interview as you’re likely to end up fumbling for words and losing your confidence. Be unapologetic if you can’t speak in English, but make sure you speak clearly and fluently; let your passion reflect in your words.
2.Rehearse by listening to talk show hosts:
Talk show hosts are adept in conversational skills and listening to them can help you grasp the right tonality and speak in an engaging manner. It won’t be easy, but with patience and practice, you can perfect it.
3.Avoid blabbering:
Avoid responding in monosyllables or one-sentence answers. But, at the same time, don’t go on and on while answering a question. Just ensure that you pack in the necessary facts and information that the interviewer is expecting. However, if you give very short answers and fail to add any facts or mention instances where you displayed your skills then the interviewer might get the impression that you are not well prepared or adequately experienced.
4.Avoid negative talk:
Your words will display your mindset and social skills. The interviewer is going to assess your personality based on the way you speak and the words you speak. Hence, even when they probe you about your past employers, colleagues, or on social issues, make sure not to talk negatively about people or ideologies. The last thing any good organization would want is to hire a person who has a negative outlook towards people and situations. On the contrary, if you talk positively about your past experiences and opinions then you come across as a resourceful person who would add value to the organization’s culture. This would enhance your chances of getting hired.
5.Be punctual:
One of the biggest mistakes that a lot of candidates make is reaching late for an interview. Every city has traffic congestion, and you can never really control the road conditions, but, to plan things in a way that helps you reach the interview venue in time is something you can control. One of the major drawbacks of late arrival would be that you might be perceived as inefficient or casual by the interviewer. Another problem is that you will not get any time to relax or review your preparation as you would have to rush into the meeting room. Thus, you might get hassled, fumble with your words, and struggle to steer the conversation the way you want.
Conclusion
We hope that the above tips shared by us prove helpful when you appear for your next personal interview. To recap it quickly, you need to be on time, well prepared, relaxed, and display the right body language, communication skills, and ability to provide impactful and concise answers to the questions asked. Talk with a smile and maintain the right eye contact with the interviewer (don’t make the other person feel that you are staring at him/her either). We wish you all the best for your interview and may the job be with you!