As soon as a potential employer calls for an interview, most new graduates immediately search the Internet for tips on how to perform well at a job interview. Instead, we’ve done the searching for you and compiled a list of tips that could potentially save you hours of online research.

First Things First.

You need to be aware that the marketplace is very competitive. Even though you may be a new graduate, it doesn’t mean the interviewer will overlook it if you were unprepared for the interview.

Before the Interview.

Do your homework! Make sure you know your resume well. Do not make things up, such as responsibilities you didn’t have or projects you didn’t do. Also do not exaggerate about what you have done.

If you’ve updated your resume recently, make sure you have several fresh copies with you.

If you are contacted for an interview, it means that you’re a potential fit for the job. Research the company well and review the job description. Know the list of responsibilities you might assume as well as the skills required for the position.

Be Professional.

In an interview, you need to dress, look, and speak professionally. Wearing a t-shirt and jeans to an interview is a big NO. Invest a little bit of time to put together a dark-colored business suit (for men) and a jacket and matching pants or knee-length skirt (for ladies). Make sure you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing.

Next – the shoes. Make sure you don’t wear sneakers, tennis shoes, sandals, or any open-toed shoes. A pair of well-polished leather shoes or heels will do.

Ladies – this is for you.

Although the interview is a formal meeting, you don’t need to over-accessorize. Also do not wear a lot of makeup, giving the impression that you were going to a party and got lost on the way…

That’s about all for the interview dress code.

During the Interview – Body Posture Tips

• Start your interview by greeting the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake.
• Make sure you maintain eye contact at all times.
• Do not squirm around in your chair or fiddle with your fingers.
• If you’ve missed something the interviewer said, do not stare blankly! Ask the interviewer to repeat it.

During the interview – Responding to Questions

• Know the, “Tell me about yourself” part really well. It is a classic, frequently-used interview opener.
• When asked follow-up questions, do not answer with short sentences. Try to elaborate by giving examples. This is what the interviewer wants to hear.
• Do not beat around the bush. Giving an introductory sentence is okay, but don’t wander off to another topic.
• Do not be self-centric when responding to questions. Give the interviewer an idea of how you would be able to contribute to the company rather than just promoting yourself.
• You’ll often get the question, “Do you have any questions for us?” Have at least a question or two in mind. It shows interest in the company and what it has to offer.

After the interview – What’s next?

Finally, thank the interviewer for his/her time. Also thank the receptionist or anyone who assisted you. You could even send a small thank you note by email.

This list of tips is not comprehensive; however we regularly post articles about job interviews. Stay tuned!