What is a job interview?
After reviewing the application pool, employers will invite a select number of individuals to interview for the position. A job interview is a formal conversation between a job applicant and representatives of an organization (typically a human resources recruiter, hiring manager or panel of interviewers).
Job interviews are a crucial step in the hiring process, helping employers make informed hiring decisions. The employer will assess each candidate’s suitability for the job based on specific criteria. Some employers base the decision on experience level, some assess interest or passion in the role or organization, while others focus on skills and education. Every employer and their associated organization values different things, but all have the same goal – to hire the best candidate for the job.
Given that a job interview is a mutual exchange of information between applicants and employers, candidates can use the opportunity to learn more about the company, its values and work environment to determine if it aligns with their career goals and preferences.
First impressions
In addition to effectively articulating your qualifications and interest in the job, succeeding in an interview can be influenced by making a positive first impression. Research shows that an interviewer decides if they would hire a candidate within 5.5 minutes. If the interviewer’s first impression of you is not positive, it can be challenging to change the interviewer’s mind during the rest of the interview.
Tips to consider on how to make a positive first impression:
If you’re able, arrive a few minutes early
Unless you are expecting an urgent call, set your cell phone to silent or turn it off
Avoid wearing strong scents because many people have environmental allergies
Consider shaking hands. More information about handshakes and alternatives can be found in the Exploring Workplace Culture section.
Be prepared for some “small talk” at the beginning of the interview; interviewers usually begin this way to help you relax and ease into the interview
Consider practicing eye contact before the interview. More information on eye contact can be found in the Exploring Workplace Culture section.
Listen actively
Maintain an open body language (e.g. arms not crossed, sitting up straight etc.)
References
Gibbons, S. (2018, June 19) You And Your Business Have 7 Seconds To Make A First Impression: Here's How To Succeed. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/serenitygibbons/2018/06/19/you-have-7-seconds-to-make-a-first-impression-heres-how-to-succeed
No Author (n.d.) 1 in 2 Employers Know About a Candidate Within First 5 Minutes. Career Builder. https://resources.careerbuilder.com/news-research/1-in-2-employers-know-about-a-candidate-within-first-5-minutes
Van Edwards, V. (2024, May 30) The Ultimate Guide To Making a Great First Impression (even online). Science of People. https://www.scienceofpeople.com/first-impressions/