Interview Tips Archives - College News https://www.collegenews.com/article/category/careers/interview-tips/ The go-to source for college students Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:35:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://www.collegenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/cropped-cn-favicon-532-150x150.jpg Interview Tips Archives - College News https://www.collegenews.com/article/category/careers/interview-tips/ 32 32 Which Big Tech Companies Have the Toughest Interview Process? https://www.collegenews.com/article/tech-companies-with-toughest-interview-process/ Wed, 17 Jul 2024 10:35:01 +0000 https://www.collegenews.com/?p=30008 Few industries offer more benefits, greater perks, higher compensation, and better jobsecurity than Big Tech. But landing a job in tech is notoriously difficult. Those lucky enough to secure an interviewface complex technical questions, and acceptance rates are lower than those of the mostselective Ivy League schools. But how do Big Tech companies compare in […]

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Few industries offer more benefits, greater perks, higher compensation, and better job
security than Big Tech.

But landing a job in tech is notoriously difficult. Those lucky enough to secure an interview
face complex technical questions, and acceptance rates are lower than those of the most
selective Ivy League schools.

But how do Big Tech companies compare in the eyes of interviewees? Does Google hold
easier job interviews than Apple?

Resume.io analyzed over 100,000 interview reviews across 14 tech giants to shed light on
the differences.

Methodology Behind Study

This study explores the quality of the interview experience and interview difficulty at some of
the largest technology companies. They focused on 13 Tech Giants: Alphabet, Amazon,
Apple, Meta, Microsoft, IBM, Tesla, Oracle, Netflix, Nvidia, Salesforce, Adobe, Intel and
Uber.

They analyzed the Glassdoor “interviews” page for each Tech Giant, focusing on 2024
interview reviews from United States applicants.
They recorded:

  • The Interview “Difficulty” Ratings = Easy, Average or Difficult
  • The Interview “Experience” ratings = Negative, Neutral or Positive

In order to calculate the Tech Giants where U.S. interviewees had the hardest/easiest and
best/worst experiences in 2024, they converted the ratings to a scoring system and calculated
an average out of 5 for both metrics.

We repeated this process for all roles with at least 10 reviews for each Tech Giant to
calculate the hardest/easiest and best/worst role to interview for at each company. This
includes data across all years and applicants worldwide.

Findings

This data analysis was conducted in April 2024.

SEE ALSO: What Are the Most Competitive Companies to Apply for in 2024?

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Getting Ready for Your First Virtual Interview: Tips and Tricks https://www.collegenews.com/article/getting-ready-for-your-first-virtual-interview-tips-and-tricks/ Wed, 11 May 2022 09:26:29 +0000 https://www.collegenews.com/?p=27767 The rise of the virtual interview has been a game-changer for college students looking for an internship or newly graduates seeking their first job. In the past, job seekers had to travel to the company’s office for an in-person interview, incurring significant expenses in the process. This often meant spending money on travel and lodging, […]

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The rise of the virtual interview has been a game-changer for college students looking for an internship or newly graduates seeking their first job. In the past, job seekers had to travel to the company’s office for an in-person interview, incurring significant expenses in the process. This often meant spending money on travel and lodging, which was a barrier for many students.

With the rise of virtual interviews, applicants can connect with companies from anywhere in the world. This has opened up opportunities for students who might not have been able to afford to travel for an in-person interview. In addition, virtual interviews provide applicants with a greater degree of flexibility, allowing them to schedule an interview around their other commitments.

While virtual interviews have some advantages over in-person meetings, there are also important things to keep in mind if you’re invited to participate in one. Landing a virtual interview in your dream company is a great accomplishment, but it’s important to be prepared to make the most of the opportunity. Here are some tips and tricks to help you prepare for your first virtual interview:

1. Do your research

Just as you would for an in-person interview, take the time to do your research on the company, the role you’re interviewing for, and the person who will be interviewing you. This will help boost your confidence and avoid getting tongue-tied during the interview.

Some common questions you can expect to be asked during a virtual interview include:

  • What do you know about our company?
  • Why are you interested in this role?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • How would you describe yourself?
  • What are your career aspirations?
  • What is your greatest accomplishment?

While you can’t anticipate every question that will be asked, preparing ahead of time will help you feel more confident and less likely to be caught off guard during the interview. 

2. Practice answering common interview questions

In addition to doing your research, it’s also a good idea to practice answering common interview questions. This will help you get into the right mindset and ensure that you’re prepared to answer any question that comes your way.

The best way to practice answering common interview questions is to have a friend or family member ask you the questions out loud. This will help you get used to hearing the questions and practicing thinking on your feet.

It is also helpful to practice in front of a mirror to see your body language and make sure that you are coming across as confident and professional. Additionally, it can be helpful to record yourself on the video to review your answers afterward and identify any areas that need improvement.

3. Test your technology

Before your virtual interview, it’s important to test your technology to ensure that everything is working properly. Start by opening the video-conferencing software you’ll be using for the interview and ensuring it’s working on your device. You can also test your webcam online to check the quality of your video.

You should also make certain that your internet connection is strong enough to support a video call. If possible, connect to the internet using an Ethernet cable rather than Wi-Fi to avoid any potential connection issues.

Lastly, have a backup plan if something goes wrong with your technology on the day of the interview. Have a friend or family member on standby in case you need to switch to a different video-conferencing platform or use their device for the call. 

4. Dress professionally

Just because you’re not meeting face-to-face doesn’t mean you can show up in your pajamas. First impressions are still key, so you’ll want to dress professionally from head to toe. That means no sweats, no T-shirts, and holes in your clothes. You should also avoid anything too revealing or too casual.

It’s also important that your hair is well-groomed and you have minimal jewelry. You want the interviewer to be focused on your qualifications, not wondering if you took the time to get dressed for the occasion. Depending on the company culture, you may even want to err on the side of more formal attire.

5. Clean your space

Now that you’ve taken care of yourself, it’s time to take care of your surroundings. Be certain your space is clean and tidy before the interview starts. This will help you feel more confident and focused, and it will ensure that the interviewer can see you clearly on camera.

If possible, find a quiet spot away from distractions like pets, children, or noisy roommates. You’ll also want to make certain that there’s nothing in the background that could be construed as offensive or unprofessional. 

 

Submitting online applications is easy enough, but the real challenge comes when it’s time to interview. But there’s no need to worry, even if this is your first time. With a little preparation, you can ace your virtual interview and land the job of your dreams.

You can ensure that you’re fully prepared for your next virtual interview by following the tips above. From there, simply put your best foot forward and impress the interviewer with your credentials. Go forth and conquer those interviews – you’ve got this!

SEE ALSO: Deep Insights into Internship Opportunities

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Common Interview Questions & How to Answer Them https://www.collegenews.com/article/common-interview-questions-answer/ Fri, 30 Nov 2018 16:52:47 +0000 https://www.collegenews.com/?p=22052 Getting the invitation to attend an interview after countless job applications can be both exciting and daunting. For recent graduates or those still in college, this interview may even be your first in the professional world, so it stands to reason that you might be getting a case of the jitters. While there is no […]

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Getting the invitation to attend an interview after countless job applications can be both exciting and daunting. For recent graduates or those still in college, this interview may even be your first in the professional world, so it stands to reason that you might be getting a case of the jitters. While there is no exact science to making a success of an interview, there are various ways would-be candidates can prepare, so that the meeting goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some of the most common interview questions and how to answer them.

Tell me a bit about yourself.

This is largely intended to be an ice-breaker—what it is not, however, is an opportunity to reel off your life story, so try to avoid mentioning where you grew up and what your favorite hobbies are. Hiring managers expect candidates to discuss relevant skills, academic qualifications and work history leading up to this point. To prepare, write down key experiences you have that relate closely to the job you are interviewing for. For example, if you are interviewing for a sales position, your skills and academic qualifications may include:

  • A business or retail degree
  • Previous work in shops/telemarketing, which developed negotiation skills
  • Strong communication and public speaking skills
  • Good at building relationships
  • An interest in the industry.

Why this position?

“I just need a job” is not the correct answer to this one, sorry. When hiring managers ask this common interview question, they want to know the depth of your knowledge about the company and what makes you the right candidate for the role. Thoroughly research the company prior to your interview: Find out their philosophy, achievements, what it is they do and their primary service or product. Then consider how your skills and experiences align with the company as a whole.

What can you bring to the role?

Bragging is a massive faux pas when it comes to interviews, so try to avoid the hard sell when asked this common interview question. Use this time to highlight your skills and how they can increase the company’s overall success for the future. If you are interviewing for a marketing assistant role, you might want to emphasise how your excellent writing and analysis skills gained throughout college can be put to good use. Offer an example of a successful social media campaign you ran that reached a high volume of people, and how that resulted in active sales or drove more traffic to a website.

If you are applying for a sales position, you may want to emphasize your strong negotiation skills. Give a sound example of when you successfully negotiated at work or university and the immediate result. Carefully planning your answer in this way shows hiring managers the effort you have put in to how hiring you would be good for the company.

Further reading: Free Courses to Boost Your Resume

What are your strengths?

Focusing on the strengths that closely relate to the job you’re interviewing for is the best way to navigate this awkward question. Hiring managers ask this question to gauge whether your skills and abilities align with the needs of the company, and whether you would be able to hit the ground running with your new role. Your strengths might include leadership skills, the ability to work both autonomously and within a team, ability to work to tight deadlines efficiently and accurately, or that you are calm under pressure.

What are your weaknesses?

Yes, career coaches tend to advise answering this common interview question with a positive spin. But if there’s anything you take from this article today, it’s that you should avoid “I’m a perfectionist.” This answer is extremely common. Hiring managers hear this very often and it won’t make you stand out from other prospective candidates. Instead, think of an occasion where you effectively turned a previous weakness into a positive. Examples of this might be:

  • You once found it difficult to delegate tasks to others, but now are able to do it with ease.
  • You once tended to overcomplicate your work, but now you look at them logically and create to-do lists to manage your time more effectively.
  • You once found it difficult to speak in public, but after pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and practising throughout college, you can now do this with confidence.

Answering these common interview questions doesn’t require rocket science, just simple, old-fashioned research and practice. The more interviews you have, the more at ease you will become.

Further reading: Avoid These Interview Mistakes

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Five Questions to Ask at the End of an Interview https://www.collegenews.com/article/questions-to-ask-at-the-end-of-an-interview/ Tue, 20 Mar 2018 08:59:32 +0000 https://www.collegenews.com/?p=21296 Asking questions at the end of an interview is just as important as answering them. Get your questions right and you’ll reinforce your suitability as a candidate, while discovering if you’re a good fit. Don’t ask questions and you’ll come across as disinterested and unprepared. Everyone knows a job interview is a two-way process. Of […]

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Asking questions at the end of an interview is just as important as answering them. Get your questions right and you’ll reinforce your suitability as a candidate, while discovering if you’re a good fit. Don’t ask questions and you’ll come across as disinterested and unprepared.

Everyone knows a job interview is a two-way process. Of course, the employer wants to know about you. But it’s also an opportunity to find out if the role is right for you. For this reason, it is vital to ask intelligent questions—based on research—when prompted to do so at the end of the interview.

This doesn’t mean asking things like: “What’s it like to work here?” “Do you like working here?” or “What do you usually do for lunch?” These questions are too simplistic and obvious; you want to seem sharper than that. Besides, you can save these questions for if/when you start the new role.

Read on for five questions guaranteed to make you stand out as a candidate.

  1. How will my development/performance in this role be measured?

This is, by far, the best question to ask at the end of an interview. Variations include: “What will you do to measure my progress?” or “How will my success be measured, here?

The reason this is such an important question to ask is because it shows you are really thinking about the role, and what sort of impact you might make in it.

It also demonstrates to the employer you have seriously thought about what you will bring to the table. And it shows you are keen to do well.

  1. What are your expectations of someone in the first three months of this role?

Use this question to gain credible insight into if you think you have what it takes to do the role. There’s no point putting yourself through a gruelling recruitment and application process for a job you don’t think you’ll be capable of doing.

This question also shows you are looking to the future and considering the long-term impact of your presence at the company. Employers will see this as an indication of your reliability and work ethic.

  1. Ask an industry-relevant question.

Do your research and find something out that has recently affected the industry you are applying to get into, and ask a question about it. For example, a political event—such as Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminium imports—may lead to changes in the industry. Use this opportunity to ask your interview what they think.

Ask about what changes/challenges the industry is facing, in light of modern trends. This shows you are abreast of what’s going on and makes you look switched on.

  1. How can I impress in my first three months here?

You could also ask: ‘What are the key attributes someone in this role needs?

Asking this question at the end of an interview highlights your commitment to the role and desire to succeed in it. It shows you’re thinking about what’s best for you and for the company. It also highlights you are a team player who wants to positively impact the business.

The answer, here, is just as important as the question; take some notes on what the interviewer says to show you are genuinely engaged.

  1. What are the next steps? (If this hasn’t already been made clear.)

Don’t forget, this is also a chance for you to gain some practical information about what you need to do next in the recruitment process.

There may be several stages in the process; use this time to find out more.

General advice  

Depending on the type of job you are going for, this will vary. But here are some general pointers.

  • Be humble. No one likes a boaster—interviewers and potential employers are no exception. Try to strike the delicate balance between humility and hubris. You want to be confident and enthusiastic, not a show-off or smart aleck.
  • Don’t use hyperbole. Try to not exaggerate your claims, as this will make you look amateurish. Avoid saying things like: ‘I have the best CV of all my classmates,’ or ‘My work is always of the utmost quality.’ Not only is this unlikely to be true—the last thing you want is for your interviewer to think you’re lying—but it also makes you look big headed.
  • Don’t ask too many questions at the end of interview. The interviewer doesn’t want to feel as though they are being interviewed.
  • Take notes. If you take a notebook into the interview with you, use it to note down important points the interviewer mentions about the role. It is especially pertinent to make notes while your interviewer is answering your questions. This is because it shows you are engaged with what he/she is telling you—and you’re not just asking questions for show.
  • Go with some ideas. Show the employer you have something fresh to bring to the company.

Further reading: Avoid These Interview Mistakes

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Avoid These Interview Mistakes https://www.collegenews.com/article/avoid-interview-mistakes/ Wed, 14 Mar 2018 12:00:47 +0000 https://www.collegenews.com/?p=21246 Spring time is around the corner which means new jobs are almost ripe for the picking, however the interview process does all the choosing. Being a fresh face in the work force or even if you’re a seasoned veteran can have its intimidating moments when you’re looking for that perfect new job. It’s understandable that […]

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Spring time is around the corner which means new jobs are almost ripe for the picking, however the interview process does all the choosing. Being a fresh face in the work force or even if you’re a seasoned veteran can have its intimidating moments when you’re looking for that perfect new job. It’s understandable that an interview isn’t as easy as one, two, three, but with a few easy reminder tips, that looming interview will be a simple stroll through the park.

1. Not doing your research

Doing your homework on an establishment before even applying for the role is imperative as it will save everyone’s time. Knowing the hours of operation, what some customer reviews say, or even asking an employee what a typical day is like at the prospective company is nothing to be ashamed of. Everything mentioned down to not knowing what you’re interviewing for can lead to a failed interview. Always remember that your time is as valuable as a potential employer’s.

2. Not knowing what you want

After investigating your potential opportunity always remember firstly what it is you want out of this job and second what you want out of this interview. As much as you’re walking in to the interview and hoping the employer chooses you, keep in mind that you should also be in a position to walk away from the meeting knowing more about this new venture than before you walked in. Generally not knowing the job spec could backfire and be a waste of time for both parties.

3. Don’t rely on your comfort zone

A group setting-style interview may mean that you will be interviewed alongside other potential candidates or interviewed by multiple senior staff members. Both scenarios are uncomfortable and not very appealing but both require your full attention and both need you to leave a lasting impression regardless. Don’t rely on your comfort zone during a make-or-break conversation.

4. Remember! Try and always give an answer

Whether you’re about to take on your first interview or your fifth interview, it’s key to always answer the questions. During a “get-to-know-each-other” conversation, there’s not too may wrong answers you can give when the interview is all about you as a candidate for employment. Over-thinking questions can lead to a mind blank for answers but taking a few seconds to gather your thoughts isn’t something to shy away from.

5. Not having examples ready for behavioral interview questions

This one ties in with point number four, however, this can tend to be a bit trickier for those with not much work experience and those with plenty. In her 5 Biggest Job Interview Mistakes article on Linkedin, career coach Lori Bumgarner writes “Behavioral questions are asked not to see how you would potentially handle a certain situation, but instead to see how you’ve handled that situation in the past. This is because past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior.” This is a great question because it’s an opportunity to paint a picture of how you handle situations.

6. Do Not answer in generalities

Specific and definitive answers are the best and only way to go in to any kind of interview. You should be able to walk away from a talk knowing what answers you gave and what questions were being asked of you. Your personality shouldn’t be forgotten when it comes to a question regarding your interest in applying for the job.

7. Being distracted

The last thing you want is to be distracted—or distract your interviewer­—during an interview. Avoid fiddling with something in your hands, rambling, slouching, chewing gum, and not make eye contact. These things can make you come off as being uninterested because all of these things are, in one way or another, a distraction. A straight posture, a focused yet relaxed demeanor, and an on-topic discussion about why you’re there is the best path to stay on.

8. Not having questions or notes prepared

Lastly, a common mistake potential candidates make is to arrive to an interview empty-handed. A great and easy way to stand out and give you a better understanding of what you’re signing up for is to have a few questions of your own prepared. If needed, also be ready to take notes. Think of questions that no one is probably asking like what the company’s work ethics are or what opportunities will you be given to climb the career ladder. This is an effective way to get a genuine interest going in you as a possible new employee.

Further reading: Free Courses to Boost Your Resume

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Nail a Successful Job Interview https://www.collegenews.com/article/nail-successful-job-interview/ Tue, 28 Nov 2017 11:26:37 +0000 https://www.collegenews.com/?p=20993 Job competition is tough—especially for recent graduates whose experience might not be as tip-top as the seasoned employee. According to Glassdoor, each corporate job offer receives around 250 applications. Of those, only four to six candidates are offered an interview, and (perhaps obviously) only one will have a successful job interview. So, be proud; you’ve […]

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Job competition is tough—especially for recent graduates whose experience might not be as tip-top as the seasoned employee. According to Glassdoor, each corporate job offer receives around 250 applications. Of those, only four to six candidates are offered an interview, and (perhaps obviously) only one will have a successful job interview. So, be proud; you’ve got your foot in the door—now it’s time to impress your future employer.

Dress to impress

First impressions count in a successful job interview. According to Business Insider, people make judgements and assumptions about you within just seven seconds of meeting you. With such a tiny window of time to work with, make your first impression count with appropriate dress. The company should have a dress policy that you can find out prior to meeting, but if you are unsure, opt for minimalist, formal wear.

List your strengths 

For introverts, it may feel out of your comfort zone to gloat about your strengths to strangers. However, this is an opportunity to positively apply your skills to the job you are applying for. Your key strengths should inhibit both soft and hard skills. Soft skills refer to skills that can transfer easily from one job to another. A soft skill may be how you manage yourself in stressful situations, or how you mediate conflict in the work place and get along with colleagues. Hard skills refer to specific technical abilities that you possess and are key to the role at hand—such as writing and software knowledge.

Positive body language

Your body language plays a pivotal role in all forms of communication and can affect how others perceive you. “You could be saying how great you are, but your body could be giving your true feelings away,” says Alison Craig, author of Hello Job! How to Psych Up, Suit Up & Show Up.  Awareness of your body language can help towards having a successful job interview. Avoid closed postures like slouching and fidgeting, as this suggests that you are guarded and may not be taking the interview seriously. Appear confident, assertive and poised by sitting tall and keep your hands relaxed and open, sitting above the desk. When your hiring agent is speaking, lean in a little while listening and slightly mirror their movements to show engagement and curiosity.

Ask questions

Did you know that not preparing questions for your potential employer may make you seem uninterested in the role? 97 percent of recruiters surveyed by job board reed.co.uk said that candidates should bring a list of questions along with them to an interview. Come equipped with specific-to-the-role questions to ask your hiring manager. This will help you gather important information for yourself whilst confirming your interest in your new job. Questions to ask for a successful job interview include:

  1. Could you describe a typical work week in this company?
  2. Who does my position report to?
  3. Are there any prospects for growth and career advancements in this role?
  4. Which accomplishments would you expect from me within the first three months of employment?
  5. When should I expect to hear from you and how soon would I be expected to start?

Follow up

Seal the deal with a follow-up email to your employer. Politely thank them for their time, explain that you enjoyed meeting and that you look forward to hearing from them soon. Take this opportunity to affirm with the hiring manager in a couple of sentences the value you will bring to the company. Relatively few candidates follow up in this way after an interview which could damage chances of a successful job interview. This helps to ensure that it’s YOU on the mind of the employer, and not your competitor.

Further reading: Applying for Your Dream Job

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Boys to Men: Crack Your First Job Interview with These 5 Dressing Tips https://www.collegenews.com/article/boys-to-men-crack-your-first-job-interview-with-these-5-dressing-tips/ Thu, 06 Aug 2015 19:22:36 +0000 http://www.collegenews.tron-media.co.uk/2015/08/06/boys_to_men_crack_your_first_job_interview_with_these_5_dressing_tips/ Men have their fair share of grooming to do to create some good impressions.

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Here are some pointers on how to look dapper for your interview

By Nicola Reynor

We’ve been hearing the adage, ‘the first impression is the last impression’ for years now, and there’s no denying the fact that it continues to hold relevance even in modern times. In fact, it is probably more pertinent today than it has ever been.

One of the most important scenarios where this adage applies to a T is during a job interview, particularly the first ever interview of your career.

So, you’re fresh out of college with stars in your eyes and hope to score yourself that much coveted role in the multinational of your dreams! The question is what steps are you going to take to turn that fantasy into reality? Wearing the right interview attire seems like a great start!

If looking good can make one feel good about himself, then not only will dressing appropriately give you a professional and worldly-wise appearance, it will also make you confident, which will reflect in the way you conduct yourself during the interview.

Also read: 12 things journalism students understand

Why Dressing Properly Is Important

As per a Job Outlook study conducted by NACE in 2006, prospective employers were most influenced by a candidate’s overall grooming and how they dress. In fact, it is the first 30 to 40 seconds of your interaction that go a long way in determining whether or not you will be hired.

While having an impressive cover letter and resume along with the perfect answers to the interviewer’s question are always a plus, one often-overlooked aspect that influences your prospective employer at a subliminal level is your attire.

How to Dress to Impress 

  1. Find the Perfect Suit

Few outfits make you look as erudite and refined as a suit does. However, it is extremely important that you choose your suit with care. You should primarily focus on three things – fit, style and fabric.

  • The Fit

When it comes to the fit of your suit, do not fall for the one-size-fits-all routine in order to save a few bucks. Focus on getting the best fit, even if you have to loosen your purse strings a tad as that will be money well spent.

The fit of your suit is what will make you look sharp. Your suit jacket should fit you snugly around your chest and arms. Before buying a suit, try on the jacket and see if you can move your arms, and if the shoulder pads end right at the taper of your shoulders. The sleeves should show about half an inch of your shirt cuffs and should not extend beyond your knuckles when your arms are relaxed by your sides.

If you’re buying a readymade suit, you will do well to have a good tailor on standby just in case it requires alterations to make the fit better. You also have the option of going for custom-made suits for men, as this way you can be sure that the suit is tailored to fit you perfectly in all aspects.

  • The Style

If you’re going to be buying only one suit, it is recommended you go for the classic suit which is considered timeless and versatile enough to be worn to most occasions.

A single-breasted two or three-button suit jacket with a notched lapel and regular flap pockets should hold you in good stead. Two-button suits are timeless and look good on most guys. Three-button suits are more suitable for tall guys with long torsos. When it comes to vents, larger guys can opt for a double back vent to allow better movement, and slimmer guys can go for a single back vent.

  • The Fabric

When selecting the fabric, consider the weave, the color and the pattern of your suit. Natural fibers like wool are versatile and breathable. If you’re going for hybrid fabric or blends, make sure the synthetic content is either 40% or less. If your suit is going to be your very first one, go for a classic navy. If it is your second suit, pick a classic gray or charcoal. Pinstripes are acceptable too, provided they don’t stand out.

  1. Wear a Great Shirt

It is suggested that you wear a 100% cotton, crisp white shirt rather than a blue or an ecru-colored one. However, make sure it is clean and spotless. Invest in a new shirt, if need be. Additionally, wear a shirt with a simple collar devoid of tabs, pins and monograms. Avoid shirts with French cuffs (to dodge cufflink bloopers) as well as those with contrasting white collar and cuffs.

  1. Tie Things Up

One of the first things about your outfit that is bound to get noticed is your well-knotted tie. Pick one with caution as wearing the wrong tie can ruin your overall look. Go for a solid-colored sleek one with a neat pattern such as small dots or stripes. Stay away from eccentric designs, bright hues and anything that’s over-the-top. Leave the pocket squares out of the equation.

  1. Accessorize Attentively

Complete your polished professional look with a pair of clean, shiny black lace-up shoes. They look more professional than penny loafers or anything gimmicky with embellishments or straps. Wear black socks, ones that are long enough to cover your ankles when you sit or cross your legs.

Keep the jewelry to a minimum. Wearing no jewelry at all (except your wedding band if you’re married) is perfectly okay. Do wear a smart watch, but make sure isn’t shiny, flamboyant or sporty.

  1. Don’t Forget to Groom

Groom yourself well for the interview by doing the following:

  • Make sure your nails are clean and neatly cut.
  • Have your hair freshly cut or, at least, trimmed around the neck and the ears a week before the interview.
  • If you have a mustache or a beard, it should be freshly trimmed; else shave on the very day of the interview.
  • Apply only a hint of cologne. Do not spray on too much of it as it can be overwhelming. You don’t want to suffocate the interviewer if you are interviewed in a small room.
  • Have a good pen handy as well as a clean handkerchief in your pocket.

Conclusion

Attending an interview is hardly the time to express your personal style/individuality or experiment with what’s in your wardrobe. Such an occasion calls for dressing to earn the job and make the most of the opportunity you have, which is why it is best to stick to the tried-and-tested. Dress to make an impact and present yourself in the best way possible. You want to differentiate yourself from the crowd and be memorable. Impeccable dressing can do that for you. Keep the above tips in mind and you’re sure to appear sharp and confident, thereby upping your chances of winning that job.

Author

Nicola Reynor is a passionate blogger who loves to blog about fashion, beauty, travel, health, fitness, wedding and lifestyle trends. When in leisure time, she prefers to spend time in traveling with friends and family. You can find more about her at Nicola+

ALSO READ: 5 Tips For Reducing Stress The Day of Your Interview

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5 Tips For Reducing Stress The Day Of Your Job Interview https://www.collegenews.com/article/5_tips_for_reducing_stress_the_day_of_your_job_interview/ Tue, 21 Jul 2015 20:43:18 +0000 http://www.collegenews.tron-media.co.uk/2015/07/21/5_tips_for_reducing_stress_the_day_of_your_job_interview/ Little Things Can Easily Derail Your Big Moment If You Don’t Prepare, Says Career Coach

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Little Things Can Easily Derail Your Big Moment If You Don’t Prepare, Says Career Coach
After months of responding to job postings, you finally land an interview.
This could be a pivotal moment in your life and career so it’s natural to feel nervous. But there’s no reason to let stress rule the day, says Lisa Quast, author of the book “Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach: A Foolproof Guide to Getting the Job You Want Every Time” (www.careerwomaninc.com).
“Life routinely throws us curves, and that’s just as likely to happen on your job-interview day as any other day,” Quast says. “Traffic could be bad. You might spill something on the blouse you planned to wear. Any number of things could go wrong that aren’t directly related to the interview, but can knock you off your game.”
While it’s not possible to anticipate every scenario, Quast says a little preparation can help you keep the anxiety level manageable.
She offers these tips for navigating your interview day as stress free as possible:
•  Know where you need to go. Don’t wait until right before an interview to make sure you have the correct address and phone number. Verify these online by checking the company website a few days ahead of time. You also should download driving directions or program the address into your smart phone or GPS to find potential routes and estimated drive times. “When in doubt, do a trial run,” Quast says. “You can drive there the weekend before to get the lay of the land and see where to park.” Don’t rely on technology alone. Always have a hard copy with the address and driving directions, just in case GPS or the smartphone fails you.
•  Obtain the correctly spelled name of the interviewer. And remember, bring a printout of the job posting. “It always surprises me how many people show up for a job interview and can’t remember the name of the hiring manager or even the job title of the position they’re interviewing for,” Quast says. “Don’t be one of those people.”
•  Schedule enough time for the interview. Block your calendar so you won’t need to rush from one job interview to the next, or go straight to another appointment or back to work. “The interview could take much longer than you think going in,” Quast says. For example, if things are going well, you might be asked to interview with others in the organization. Be sure to schedule ample time in case you need to stay longer. “You don’t want to be stealing quick glances at your watch when you should be listening to what the hiring manager is saying,” Quast says.
•  Turn off your cell phone. “When I say off, I mean off,” Quast says. “Don’t put it on vibrate.” The reason, she says, is that almost everyone can hear a cell phone vibrating in a purse, briefcase or pocket. You will be aware that a call is coming in for you. The people interviewing you will be aware. And you will be aware that they are aware.
•  Take a bathroom break before the interview. Use the restroom before you leave your house and avoid too much coffee or other liquids shortly before your interview. If you need to use the bathroom when you arrive at the company, ask the receptionist to point you to them before he or she informs the hiring manager that you have arrived.
“One additional thing you can do is give yourself a pep talk before the interview,” Quast says. “Mentally remind yourself of all the things you plan to do during the interview, the points you want to make about your experience and the questions you have about the company.
“You may not be able to eliminate all the butterflies, but your preparation should help reduce the stress and let you concentrate on making the most of the opportunity.”
About Lisa Quast
Lisa Quast is a career coach, a business consultant and author of the book “Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach: A Foolproof Guide to Getting the Job You Want Every Time” (www.careerwomaninc.com). Quast spent more than 20 years climbing the career ladder in corporate America with career success in traditionally male-dominated companies/industries. She has completed projects around the world in the areas of strategic planning, marketing & communications, sales, service, operations, pricing, business development, pre-acquisition analysis and acquisition integration and HR/talent development.

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Nailing a Job Interview: Easier than You Think! https://www.collegenews.com/article/nailing_a_job_interview_easier_than_you_think/ Thu, 28 May 2015 01:50:02 +0000 http://www.collegenews.tron-media.co.uk/2015/05/28/nailing_a_job_interview_easier_than_you_think/ Whether you’re a recent college grad, or a fresh-eyed internship seeker, these tips will help you succeed at any job interview, and set you apart from other candidates. Do your research before you get there. This cannot be stressed enough. Investigating what the company is all about as well as what the job description requires […]

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Whether you’re a recent college grad, or a fresh-eyed internship seeker, these tips will help you succeed at any job interview, and set you apart from other candidates.

Do your research before you get there.

This cannot be stressed enough. Investigating what the company is all about as well as what the job description requires is crucial to your success, and can really set you apart from other candidates.

Since someone told me this tip, I’ve abided by it faithfully, and gotten all four of the jobs I’ve applied to since then. It really works. At one of the jobs, the interviewer asked me what I thought the goals and purpose of the company should be. Based on my research, I explained what the purpose of the company was (in my thoughts) and what they strive to do. She smiled and said “I think you could have written our mission statement better than we did!” It pays to do your legwork and come into the interview prepared.

Show, don’t tell

You’ve probably heard this one from your writing professor, but it applies here as well. When you’re applying for a job, most people probably have similar qualifications. And anyone could say “I have experience with Photoshop” or whatever the case may be.

You should go above and beyond by getting specific. Instead of saying “I have experience with Photoshop,” say “My internship at Company Z helped me learn the ins and outs of Photoshop, and eventually I was put in charge of designing the brochures for the end-of-summer fundraising gala.” If you can bring examples of your work, (in this case, the brochure) then that’s an even better way to make yourself stand out.

I find it especially helpful to write down the requirements or qualifications that they’re seeking in one column, and a detailed explanation of why you fulfill that requirement in another column. If the interviewer allows it, you can even bring these notes with you.

 Have some questions prepared

At the end of the interview, when the employee asks if you have any questions, do your best to have one or two. Ask about what the company culture is like, how others in your position have succeeded, or even what your interviewer likes best about working there. It demonstrates a genuine interest in the position and shows that you aren’t afraid to ask questions. Be sure that you don’t ask something that was clearly covered in the interview (but if you have clarifying questions about a previous topic, then now is the time to ask them!) If the interview was so in-depth that you truly don’t have any questions, then tell them so by saying “I had a few questions about the use of Excel as it relates to the position, but you were very clear in your explanation. Thank you.”

Dress to impress

This seems like an obvious one, but sometimes there is confusion over what’s appropriate. You should wear something you’re comfortable in that looks appropriate for the business world. When in doubt, wear something slightly nicer than what you think is necessary. Even if it’s a relatively casual company, it’s still important to put your best foot forward in the interview and show that you’re willing to put in the effort.

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Men's business wear for interviews https://www.collegenews.com/article/mens_business_wear_for_interviews/ Thu, 04 Aug 2011 17:08:30 +0000 http://www.collegenews.tron-media.co.uk/2011/08/04/mens_business_wear_for_interviews/ The basics of business wear for men.

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The basics of business wear for men

Although you may have just graduated from college, you definitely should give that appearance when stepping into the office of your potential employer. Forget the freshman fads and give yourself a professional authoritative appearance by considering the following tips about how to dress for an interview  from the book “Working World 101.”

  • Men’s business wear tip: Stick with neutral suits. Navy blue, gray and charcoal are always appropriate and timeless. When fastened, fasten all buttons except for the bottom button. When sitting, unfasten all buttons so there is no bunching.
  • Men’s business wear tip: A good rule of thumb is that ties should be darker than your shirt and, if patterned, it should be a conservative pattern.
  • Men’s business wear tip: Shoes and belts should be black or brown. The color of your socks should match the color of your pant leg or of your shoes. Always, ALWAYS wear socks.
  • Men’s business wear tip: Have your hair trimmed and make sure your nails are also trimmed and clean.
  • Men’s business wear tip: Make sure your suit fits properly! If you have to borrow one from a friend until you land the job, be sure it is only that fits correctly. A suit that is too large or too small looks just as unprofessional as not wearing a suit at all.

Get more career and interview advice in our Resources section.

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