Nail That Interview

There are so many important steps that go into interview whether it’s beforehand, afterward, and even during. You only get that one chance to make a lasting impression on any recruiter. Sadly, many highly qualified candidates neglect how important the preparation process is when it comes to interviewing, which can put them at the bottom of a list.

 

Worried about your interview? I’m here to help. There are three portions of preparation for an interview: prior-to the interview, day-of interview, and post-interview. Let’s break those down!

 

 

Congratulations on landing that interview! Now, let’s focus on the next three steps that will take you in the direction of walking away with that job.

 

 

Research plays one of the biggest roles in the interviewing process. It’s important to know the company before walking into an interview. Take time to research the company through their website, or maybe even a news report. Take notes on their mission statement, ongoing projects, future goals as well as current. Get a feel for their company size and typical work environment!

 

 

It’s critical you go into an interview well-prepared with questions, in two different contexts. First, generate a list of possible questions the interviewer(s) may ask. Take those questions and practice some responses. Get comfortable with them, because it can help calm you down during the real thing! Second, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer. Asking questions during an interview, usually at the end, helps show your engagement. Some example questions would be, “What are some day-to-day responsibilities on the job?” or, “What will the next steps be of the interview process?” Always have at least one or two questions prepared to ask, because generally they will ask if you have any questions for them!

 

 

Make sure to bring some extra copies of your resume and cover letter to the interview. The recruiters might not ask you to bring them, but if you do, you’ll be one step ahead if unexpectedly asked for it!

 

 

Let’s wow the employer!

 

 

Dressing for interviews, unless told otherwise, is always business casual or business professional. For men, a suit or dress shirt, tie, and nice slacks will do. Women have it a bit easier with some flexibility. Typically, I like to go with a blazer, nice blouse and dress pants. You could dress it up with a skirt, or even a dress! Try sticking to neutral colors for the interview such as blue, black, gray, or brown.

 

 

Don’t head into an interview on an empty stomach! Eating before will allow you to be alert and ready. You, and even your employer, won’t want to be distracted by a rumbling stomach! Beforehand, drink some water and try to stay away from coffee – we all know nobody enjoys coffee breath.

 

 

Typically, arriving 15 to 20 minutes early is reasonable. If your interview is scheduled for 9:00am, I’d arrive no later than 8:50am, and no earlier than 8:40. This will set a professional tone. When you’re waiting, try to stay off your phone. It’s normal to have the pre-interview jitters, but instead of being on your phone, take the time to practice some responses to the list of questions you compiled that they may ask.

 

 

It’s time! Walk in confidently with a big smile and nice, firm hand shake. Make sure to speak clearly, keeping your responses short, simple, and honest. Focus on those transferrable skills! If you’re unfamiliar with what transferrable skills are, they’re skills can carry over from one job to the next. For example, leadership. You may be the captain of a team or coach a team in a sport outside the workplace. Take that and apply it to leading in the work setting! The hardest question for most interviewees to answer is, “What is your biggest weakness?” Turn those weaknesses into strengths! Focus on how you’ve improved on that weakness. For example: “I’m typically a perfectionist, so I like to make sure that my work is perfect. This leads me to spend a little too much time checking over my work. However, I’ve learned to balance by incorporating a system that ensures everything is done correctly the first time.”

 

 

Well, how did you think you did?! Let’s seal that deal!

 

 

Make sure to give a firm handshake before exiting. If they don’t mention contacting you within the next few weeks, asking an expected date won’t hurt! Confidently exit the interview with your head held high.

 

 

This step is SO important, I cannot stress it enough! After roughly 24-hours, send a thank you letter! Make sure it’s well-written and personal. Thank you notes really can impact the decision-making process for some employers. It can really set you apart from your fellow candidates!

 

Incorporating these steps into your next interview will guarantee you are one step closer to landing that dream job! Have some faith in yourself – you got this!