Careers expert reveals exactly how to answer the first question in every job interview

‘How are you?’ Is normally the first question you will be asked in every job interview.

And while it seems simple like a simple question, your answer will actually reveal a lot more about you than you may think.

Careers expert, Erin McGoff, from the US, has shared in a now-viral video how you sohuld answer the ‘How are you?’ question in a job interview — and why it’s an important one to get right.

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“Remember how you speak matters more than what you say,” said Erin.

Erin went on to explain that when a potential employer starts a job interview by asking how are you and nice to meet you, you should never say “good” or “I am okay”.

“This is your opportunity to make a positive and professional first impression. And set the tone for the rest of the interview,” she explained.

Erin says that the problem is that “no one really thinks of this as an interview question, but it actually is”.

She gave some specific examples in her video on how to answer it.

“You can give a basic greeting and response and respond with: ‘I am doing well thanks, how are you?’”

Her other options include responding with a greeting and enthusiasm, or a greeting and small talk, a greeting and relevant detail such as: “I am great thanks, it’s a beautiful day outside.”

These are particularly good if you are waiting for someone else to join the meeting.

Erin also suggests talking about the weather or the company briefly in your answer if it feels natural to you.

Her other tips include “sitting up straight, making eye contact, smiling, nodding, no hands in pockets and feet on floor”.

“Start the interview off on the right foot by communicating that you’re professional, capable, warm, and you know, a normal human that’s easy to work with,” Erin explained.

Erin’s video garnered more than 300,000 views and people in the comments loved her advice.

“Love how you are just teaching us all social skills disguised as career advice,” said one.

“Thanks Erin, this is so helpful. I have learned a lot from you,” said a second.

“Love your content,” said a third.

Previously, Téa Angelos, the Australian founder and CEO of Smart Women Society, said before an interview wraps up, she always has two to three questions ready for the prospective employer to answer.

This is a good way to stand out from the crowd.

“Ask two to three questions directly related to the interview, the company, the role and its responsibilities, as well as any points that were not already discussed in the interview,” she previously told 7Life.

“Prepare a few questions before your interview and ask the most relevant ones based on your discussion on the day.”

To equip you with the skills for those interviews, Téa came up with her seven go-to killer questions.

1. What does a typical day in this role look like?
2. What are some of the growth opportunities in this role?
3. What are some of the company’s goals over the next few years?
4. What is your favourite part about working here at (company)?
5. What are the key indicators of success in this role?
6. Can you tell me a little bit more about the company culture?
7. What are the next steps in the process?

“These questions allow you to … make an informed decision about where it’s a good fit for you,” Téa said.