Preparing for a Successful Job Interview
Preparing for a job interview is something akin to auditioning. Of course you want to put your best foot forward and ensure you are knowledgeable about the company and your own background to make a strong impression. The interview is an opportunity for you to ‘market yourself’ to a potential hiring manager and demonstrate the skills and competencies you possess that make you a unique and compelling candidate for the role. Below are some recommendations to help you get your ‘game face on’.
Preparation – Before the interview you should make sure that you do the proper due diligence to learn about the company. This includes any recent changes or ‘current events’ that have made a substantial impact. A quick search online will likely give you relevant newsworthy information. You should also review the company’s website to learn about their mission and corporate values. If you have any contacts internally, make sure you reach out early so you can get the ‘inside track’. The more you know the better prepared you will be to respond accordingly. Here are some things to do in preparation for the day of the interview:
- Select your clothing the night before so you don’t scramble for what to wear;
- Have the address readily available so you know where you are going;
- Make sure you leave early so you arrive with some time to spare;
- Prepare some questions in advance so you have something to ask the interviewer.
Interviewer Interaction – Your first impression should be positive and proactive. No ‘limp’ handshake. Shake hands like you mean it – but don’t give the death grip. Make strong eye contact and make sure your body language says that you are engaged and ready to go. Stand up tall with your shoulders back and be sure to give a genuine smile. When you begin speaking with the interviewer, make sure you answer the questions without delivering a sermon. Balance your responses so that the interviewer has time to speak. Most importantly, don’t interrupt; let the interviewer finish his thought or question before you speak. Here are a few important bits of information:
- It is ok to pause before you answer a question to collect your thoughts;
- If you are unsure of what you are being asked, ask for clarification;
- Make sure you answer honestly.
- Be prepared for “unusual” questions
Due Diligence – Remember the interview is not all about them – it’s about you, too. This is your opportunity to learn more about the company. You will get a sense about the company and role – TO SEE IF IT IS RIGHT FOR YOU. This is critical to ensure that you make a good decision for yourself. Ask questions and take some notes so you don’t forget key elements to help with a potential decision making process. If you are interested, find out how far along they are in the process. If you are interested in the job TELL THE INTERVIEWER.
Post Interview Follow-Up – Make sure that you send a follow-up thank you note to each person you see. Get business cards so you can quickly send out a note. A handwritten note is ideal as it demonstrates that you are willing to go the extra mile.
These simple yet effective guidelines will help you prepare for the interview, and will certainly contribute to your success. In a follow-up post, I will publish a list of commonly asked interview questions and how to answer them.
Here’s to your career success!
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