So you’ve gone to every networking event your school has to offer, handed out hundreds of resumes and finally got that call back for an in-person interview (Yay!). Now the real work begins. To seal the deal it’s going to take a lot more than flashing those pearly whites and wearing an Olivia Pope-esque suit. But before you break out into a nervous sweat here are six things to remember to slay that interview.
1. Research, research, research!
And did we mention research? Knowing the company your interviewing for inside and out is extremely important. Being able to bring up news on a recent launch the company had or an event they participated in, shows that you follow them and their growth. When talking about yourself, make a connection between your goals and character with company values. The interviewer wants to make sure that they’re picking someone who is a good fit. Research the position to know exactly what they’re looking for, so you can explain how you exceed those requirements.
2. Know your resume like the back of your hand
“So why don’t you walk me through your resume?” 99 times out of a 100 your interviewer is going to ask you this question at the beginning of the interview, and on the off chance it’s not the first question, it’ll be the second. That’s why it’s important to know the key aspects of your resume to talk about. Make sure you emphasize things you’ve done that yielded results and relate them with the experience they are looking for.
3. Dress to Impress
What may seem like the easiest part can sometimes be the most difficult and that’s finding the perfect outfit. Of course you want to look as stylish as possible while still being professional, but sometimes finding that line isn’t obvious. You can’t go wrong with black tailored slacks and blazer, but it’s important to research (again) company culture to make sure you fit in.
4. If you’re on time you’re late, so be early
You don’t want to be running up the stairs or praying the elevator comes faster two minutes before your scheduled interview, so make sure you’re early. If you’re taking public transportation give yourself plenty of time taking an early train. However if you’re super early, you can always find a Starbucks to sit in and go over your resume.
Also try to be in the waiting area 10 minutes before your interview. That way you can catch your breath, or if your interviewer is ready, start the interview early. Try any way you can to make sure you are never late.
5. Ask all the right questions
After being drilled by your interviewer for 10 minutes make sure that you ask them questions. Ask them how your position helps to achieve the company’s goals, what the day to day will be like, or their personal professional history. Asking questions is a great way to show your interviewer that you listened to everything he/she said and still want to know more, because that’s how excited you are about working at the company. Don’t be shy.
6. Follow Up
Like any promising date, you want to make sure that you follow up with your interviewer. Sending an email thanking them for their time and your conversation is the icing on the cake. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness and it will help them to remember you when making their final decision. Sending a personal thank you card is also a good touch.