It is beginning to be the time when interviews for jobs and internships are more common. Many places like to interview their candidates in the spring semester for summer internships and opportunities. The word interview tends to freak many people out. It’s completely understandable. The fact that you are asked questions about yourself to complete strangers is not a comfortable situation, however it is imperative to be able to interview well to get a job or a position you are seeking. Some people are more natural at it, and some are not. Either way, to be successful in life you must know how to make a great, memorable impression and to present yourself professionally in front of employers. But where do you even begin? Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind if you are getting ready for an interview.
Do Your Research
One of the most commonly asked questions in an interview is, “What do you know about the company?” It’s extremely important that you know who you are interviewing with and what position you are interviewing for. Not only do you want to impress the company with all of your knowledge about them, but you don’t want to be blindsided if they do ask you an in-depth question about them. Some basic information you should probably look up is when the company started, who the founder is, what they do, and what their values and mission statement is. To make an even better impression, incorporate your knowledge about the company into your interview answers. It will absolutely impress people and will let them know that you are dedicated and interested in them as a company.
Review Commonly Asked Interview Questions
Many employers want to know the basic information about you, which means that a lot of companies will ask you similar questions. To be prepared and not be caught off guard by any questions, look up some frequently asked questions and practice your answers and responses. It is always safe to know what to say or at least have an idea of what you want to say when the person asks you the questions. By practicing some questions first, you will eliminate your chances of being surprised and will come up with a great response because you thought about it before.
Dress for Success
Dressing up is hardly anyone’s favorite thing to do. It makes you even more uncomfortable if you have to dress up for an interview…as if you weren’t uncomfortable and nervous enough already. The thing is, dressing up goes a long way. It makes a great impression and tells the employer that you are professional and proficient. You know when people say, “Don’t judge others by outward appearances”? Well, the truth is, employers do. Employers are watching and analyzing everything you do. What you wear can tell an employer a lot about who you are. So, dress up and look nice. Dress in business attire and make sure you look professional because if you don’t, you will not make a good impression.
Make Good Impressions
Dressing for success is not the only way you can make good impressions. Showing up on time, and even early, is an excellent way to start an interview before it’s even begun. Showing up early and on time lets the company know that you are prompt and punctual. Every company loves that aspect in an employee. It lets them know that they can count on you to be at work on time every day and to show up early for big meetings. Another way to make a good impression is to tell the company something unique about you. Tell them something that sets you apart from the hundreds of other people they interviewed for the same position. Make them remember you. At the end of the interview, thank them for the opportunity to meet with you. Write a thank you note, give a call and thank them in person, it lets them know that you are grateful for the opportunity. Last, little things like shaking peoples’ hands, smiling and making eye contact are other great attributes.
Be Confident and Enthusiastic
Excitement, enthusiasm, passion, energy, zeal, spirit and heart is what is really going to sell it to the employers that you want this job. They are looking for someone who wants this job, who they feel is deserving of this job and who is excited about it. Showing all of these characteristics in an interview is going to tell the company that you want this more than anyone. Do not be afraid to be happy, to be excited and to be confident in yourself and in the company while you are interviewing.
There are so many more tips and helpful strategies that prepare you for an interview. Take the time to do research, look them up, and practice before your interview. Practice makes perfect. All you can do is your best, and give it your all. If you do all these things and work hard, guaranteed there will be an employer and company out there wanting to hire you. Good luck to everyone who is entering the interviewing season, and it is hoped that these tips helped prepare yourself and ease your mind before your big interview!