Why an interview is a lot like going on a first date?

Going for an interview is like going for a first date. You want to look and behave your best at your first date/interview, to grab your potential date/employer’s attention. Like in a date so in an interview, you get only one chance to create an impeccable first impression, to prove why you are the perfect match for the job. Interestingly, tips that work successfully in the dating world can be applied in an interview, to get great results.Here are few tips from the dating world which can improve your chances of qualifying for the next round of interview and hopefully help you land your dream job:

Do research – Show interest in your date

Be prepared before you land up for the interview like you would do before going out on a date. Learn about the company, industry it deals in, products or services, missions, goals and competitors, to show you are interested in working with them. When you show interest in the company’s values, missions, and goals genuinely, your chances of being considered as a potential candidate become higher.

Pay attention to your personal grooming

You definitely would like to look great on your first date, without trying to look too flashy. Same for an interview, you need to take care of your personal hygiene to look well-groomed and decent. Wear formal clothing and accessories, which are appropriate for work environment.

Be on time – Respect your date’s time

As on a first date, reaching on time is important while attending an interview as well. An interview is your first opportunity, to make a good impression before  your potential employer. So better be on time. If necessary, plan well ahead to reach on time and if you need to cancel or reschedule an interview, inform the employer at least a day in advance.

Think positive and be confident – Impress your date

Like your date, a company too loves a person with positive attitude and great confidence. The key to winning your potential employer’s attention is through your confidence and can-do positive attitude.

Avoid saying anything negative about your Ex

When asked about your past experiences in previous company, you may be tempted to criticize your ex-employer or colleagues. But it’s always better to refrain from saying anything unimpressive about your former employer or others. If you vent out negative comments about your previous employer, the interviewer may view you as unfit for the job.

Don’t pressurize yourself – This is not the end of the world

Even if you like the job profile or think the company is amazing, don’t pressurize yourself too much. As it can make you more nervous and affect your performance at the interview. Remember, this is not your only or last chance to land a job; there are hundreds of companies and job openings out there.

Like in dating, when you are serious about your date and willing to take the relationship forward, you want to show your best self. Similarly, if you are serious about landing your dream job, you need to create an impressive first impression of yourself before the potential employer, to go to the next round of interview.