Congratulations- you got the interview. Getting your foot in the door is half the battle, but now what? Interviews can be intimidating. In the space of thirty some minutes, you will have to convince your prospective employer that you are better fit for the position than all the other similarly qualified candidates they will be interviewing. That is no easy task- but fret not, i’ve got you covered. Check out my top eight tips for nailing your next interview and landing the job!
Do your research
Research the company you’re interviewing at beforehand. You’ll want to know the basics about the company, such as: what they do, the company’s products and competitors, their mission, and what the work environment is like. Working this information into your answers can make a lasting impression on your potential employer.
Be on time
The fastest way to make a bad first impression is arriving late for the interview. Employers do not want to hire someone who will be regularly tardy for work. Rather, plan to arrive 15 to 20 minutes prior to the scheduled time to allow yourself a final chance to review your notes and get in the right state of mind.
Dress appropriately
According to the Association for Psychological Science, it only takes seven seconds to size someone up when meeting them for the first time. One of the first things your employer will notice about you is your outfit. With that said, you will want to make sure your outfit is appropriate for the work environment. Try to refrain from bold makeup, short hems on dresses and skirts, and low-cut tops. When in doubt, business casual is a safe bet for interview apparel. Check out thetrendspotter.com’s guidelines for women’s business casual attire for interview appropriate outfit ideas:
https://www.thetrendspotter.net/business-casual-women/
Utilize waiting room time
The waiting room is likely where you will make your first impression on your interviewer when they come to retrieve you. When in the waiting room use good posture, stay off your phone, maintain a friendly demeanor, and greet your interviewer with a smile and firm handshake when they come to get you.
Come prepared
Employers want to know that they are hiring someone who will be ready for any task they are asked to complete. Bring extra copies of your resume or portfolio, references, and a pen and paper to take notes on.
Listen before answering
Don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer to rephrase questions or to take a moment or two to think about your answers.
Thank them for their time
When the interview has drawn to a close, make sure to shake the interviewer’s hand and thank them for their time. Everyone appreciates good manners and recognizing that they are taking time from their likely busy schedule will make them feel appreciated and respected.
Follow up afterward
Make sure to get the email of the individual interviewing you so that you can follow up later in the day. In your e-mail, be sure to thank them again for their time and express your interest in the position. Before you click send, check the message two or three times for proper grammar and usage.