Ace Your Interview for an Internship Abroad
Going on an interview for an internship abroad is a challenging experience, especially if it is your first one. Sometimes the pressure and stress can get the better of you and cost you the position. This stress mostly comes from the fact that you have no idea what to expect during an interview. Thus, try following these 6 interview tips to better prepare yourself to get hired.
1. Do your homework
The very first thing to do, before going on an interview for an internship abroad, is to do a deep and thorough research about the company you are applying to. Go to the company’s website to read through its history and vision mission. Find out any publications about the company, like its new business move or awards it has received. If possible, skim their yearly or quarterly reports to get a better feel about the company. Also, read more about the industry as a whole and the company’s competitors. Use this information during your interview, show that with your skills and capabilities, you are the perfect candidate for the position.
2. Practice makes perfect
There is only one sure way to make sure that you will be able to answer interview questions clearly and confidently – practice it! Write out your possible responses to common interview questions, such as why do you want an internship in that company or why do you think you are the best candidate for the position. Try to build up an answer that will highlight your skills and capabilities and also showcase your experience. Also, practice the right body language for an interview to make sure your project confidence. Small things like, straight posture, smile, eye contact and firm handshake, will really make a big difference. Practice in front of the mirror or have a friend be your practice buddy.
3. Get an early start
Always get ready way ahead of time before an interview, at least the night before. Prepare your best professional outfit, have an extra copy of your CV and other supporting documents, and have a notepad and a pen ready. More importantly, you need to arrive at the interview location early as lateness will never be tolerated. This is to give you some extra time to calm yourself beforehand. One thing to do this is to make sure that you know exactly where the interview is going to take place and how long it will take you to get there, then plan accordingly.
4. Keep your calm
Despite the fact that an interview is an indeed stressful experience, you have to try to keep your cool. It is easier to be said than done, but your state of mind will influence your body language and how you answer the question. If you are too nervous, you might continuously fidget and ramble when you answer the question. One thing to try is to listen carefully and give the interviewer your full focus and take a moment before you answer the question. Do not rush. Be sincere and truthful when you answer and project confidence. Never appear to be desperate for a job (even if you actually are). You know you have the qualifications, make the interviewer believe it too.
5. Ask smart questions
Asking the right question will impress the interviewer. It will show that you have done your research about the company and the position you apply for. It also shows that you are deeply invested in this particular job and that you have initiative. You can also understand more about what is expected of you with these questions. Make a list of questions that you can ask during an interview. You can ask about the team you will work with, about the performance review or about the projects you might be involved in.
6. Thank your interviewer
No matter how your interview went, always remember to thank your interviewer. Show that you appreciate the opportunity and the interviewer’s time. You can say your thank you by person right after your interview ended or you can send a thank you note via email or any other messaging options. Even if you do not get the position, at the very least the interviewer will remember that you have went out of your way to show your appreciation.
We hope these 6 interview tips can help you ace your interview. If you have any more questions about this topic, contact us! We will be able to help you practice and prepare for your interview for an internship abroad.