There are two approaches to the interview process. Either you can go and just be passively interviewed, responding to all the questions that are asked of you. Or you can show your enthusiasm and zeal by researching the company: their needs, plans and exact requirements for the job. Armed with this knowledge you can respond to the real questions and fears, of the employer (See previous article on What Is The Employer Looking For, in Employment Counsellor). The very fact that you have taken the initiative to research the organization; will go a long way in establishing your personal and professional attributes and attitudes.
Building Company Awareness:
Find out as much as possible about the company. Write to the personnel/public relations department of the company and request for the annual report of the company. If by chance you happen to know somebody in that company or city you could try and find details about the company. The more details you have about the company the better equipped you will be to answer questions in the interview and later to decide whether you want to join the company or not.
Tailor Your Responses:
The research you have done about the organization will be helpful in clarifying some of your doubts and concerns about your role in the organization. It will give you a frame of reference for the interview.
For Example When Siddhartha went for an interview with Company X, he had found out that they had recently installed new computer software & the advertised job would entail coordinating the needs of several departments plus ensuring the smooth functioning of the software. When asked about his previous job experience Siddhartha highlighted the fact that he had coordinated the requirements of several departments and that was his strong point. He also informed the panel about his experience in coordinating a national seminar on the latest computer software & their use in offices.
Advantages of Company Awareness:
Whatever little you might know about the company try & integrate that knowledge with your answers. The main reason is that the interviewer is looking for a person who, after being hired, will have to be trained the least and can start delivering results within a short period of being on the job. Thus if you seem as if you know & understand the needs of the company then more power to you!
But remember, just like Rome was not built in one day, you cannot succeed in an interview just on the basis of reflecting your company awareness. Success in the interview will come only if you have an adequate basis of skills for the job.
Appear Confident and in Control:
This is the key to the art of successful interviewing. If you have researched the company, anticipated employer questions and practiced your interview skills you already have an edge over all those others who are also interviewing for the post. Dress neatly, take all the necessary documents in a file/ briefcase and take a few deep breaths before entering the room with a smile. More than half the battle is won, now clinch the job by alert and well thought out answers... All the best!
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