Here is a small write up that could help you move from good to great.
Interview – Quality Time: The time that you spend with the client at the Interview, needs to be quality time. This is an opportunity for you to highlight your positive points- your strengths. The client is looking for the right skill set, attitude, aptitude and values that match with the organization. You must make a positive impression on the client.
Ensure you know the basics:
Client Name
Date and time of the interview
Position being interviewed for
Role and Job Description
The exact location of the company / Route Map
Contact person and telephone number
The name of the interviewer, his designation / panel size
Website of the company
Company’s Profile and Corporate culture
Salary range as indicated by the client
Carry a copy of your CV, 2 photographs and copies of your educational certificates and passport.
Pay attention to you dress code and grooming
Homework
You must do sufficient research on the company Also ensure that you do not misrepresent any of the factual data including:
Period of service
Current remuneration
Current position and Job description
Previous employment data
Family background
Education background
References
Training
Questions to expect at the interview
Reason for leaving the present job
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
A valid explanation if there have been too many changes in jobs / industry
Questions based on the job / specialization
Any initiative undertaken in a previous job that has made a significant positive impact
Current performance and quantifying it
Career plans and where you see yourself in the next 5-7 years
What do you know about the company you are seeking a job with?
Personal likes / dislikes / hobbies / willingness to relocate
Current salary and expected salary
References from ex–employers
Family details
Pitfalls to avoid during an interview
Do not be late for an interview. If the circumstances are beyond your control ensure the consultant / client is informed well in advance
Avoid a limp handshake
Be conscious of your posture / body language (Don’t keep hands crossed across chest)
Do maintain eye-contact
Avoid any strong regional accents / colloquial usages while talking
Avoid being either over aggressive or too meek at the interview
Avoid usage of words / phrases you are not sure about
Do not over emphasize on the remuneration / monetary benefits you are looking for
Do not bad-mouth previous employer/s
Be honest about the reasons for changing previous job/s
Be forthright if you do not have enough knowledge about a particular question asked
Do not overstate your past achievements
Do not go for the interview without doing basic homework on the company / job / role / subject
Do not overstate current salary
Be positive and alert at all time during the interview
Ask intelligent / relevant questions when the interviewer gives you a chance to learn more about the company.
Do not be rude or impatient if the client asks probing questions- he may be checking your level of tolerance
Closing the interview
Avoid saying that you need to consult parents / friends etc to take a decision, rather ask for time to give a response
Do not show discouragement if you feel the interview has not been positive
Thank the interviewer for the time and opportunity provided
Be cheerful and positive and show your eagerness to join the organization
Regards
Raghu