5 Hacks to crack your first interview

Your first interview is important because it could be life changing and a lot depends on it, including your career. It can be an experience that is unnerving and first interview jitters are only natural.

Here are some hacks and tips from us to help you keep your cool and focus on acing it !

1. Get comfortable

When you’re comfortable, your thought process is clear which helps you do your best at the interview. Get comfortable with your surroundings, the interviewer and yourself at the venue. A simple discussion about the traffic or the weather can help you break the ice. But, remember not to get too comfortable. No matter how friendly the interviewer, maintain professional etiquette.

2. Research about the company and the role you are interviewing for

If you, as a candidate, are not serious enough to know about the company or the role you are applying for beforehand, why should they consider you for the job? The more you know, the better prepared you are. Knowing about the company will also help you ask your interviewer questions - the importance of which we will discuss next.

3. Ask questions

An interview is not just about being interviewed and answering questions of the opposite party. It is also the time for you to know if the job is right for you and if it will help you grow. Asking questions is also a way of letting your interviewer know that you are serious about the job.

4. If you don’t know something, be honest

First interviews can be nerve-wracking and it is common for candidates to try to fumble through questions they don’t know the answers to. If you are posed with a question you don’t know the answer to, remain calm and admit your lack of knowledge about the topic. Let your interviewer know that you will take the effort of looking up for more information about the question. Don’t worry even if your interviewer looks disappointed, know that your honesty will always be appreciated.

5. Dress up for the occasion

No matter what the position you are applying for or what the company culture is, dressing appropriately is important. The definition of formal wear has changed over the years. So, just make sure you don’t walk into the interview room in too-casual clothes or with really strong perfume that can be distracting. Ironed clothes, minimum jewellery, neat hairstyles and mild colours are always welcome in interview rooms.

Keep these tips on the top of your mind for your first interview and go ace it! Good luck!