Interviews

None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.

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If you only read a few

  1. Accept a glass of water when offered during an interview to use as a prop for pausing.

    Taking a sip provides extra seconds to think about difficult questions and helps clear a dry mouth caused by nervous breathing.

    • Shaking hands may cause the water to slosh, revealing nervousness.

    3 people, independently

    • Keep water nearby for presentations or interviews. Sip when you need time to recall info or formulate answers.3
  2. Take a quick drink of water to create a tactical pause for gathering thoughts before answering a difficult question.

    It gives extra time to organize thoughts or formulate an answer.

    • Risk choking mid-gulp and accidentally showering the interviewer with mouthwater.

    3 people, independently

  3. Instead of using a drink to stall, verbally request a moment to think.

    Asking for time can signal thoughtfulness and confidence, while stalling with a drink might look like nervousness.

    3 people, independently

  4. Ask what outcomes are expected from a new employee within the first 90 days.

    3 people, independently

  1. Identify a weakness and explain the specific steps you are taking to improve it.

    It shows self-awareness and proactivity.

    4 people, independently

  2. Close the interview by asking if the interviewer has any reservations about your candidacy that you can address.

    This question often prompts an honest answer because it is unexpected.

    3 people, independently

  3. Inquire about what a typical day entails or how the previous day went to grasp the routine and workload.

    3 people, independently

  4. Apply for jobs even if you lack specific experience or skills, provided you are confident you can perform the role.

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  1. Ask what the interviewer likes about their job at the company.

    It demonstrates interest in the organization, and people generally enjoy discussing themselves.

    3 people, independently

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