No matter how qualified or smart you are, you will need preparation for a job interview. Interview skills can be learned. In order to land that job you have been seeking, you should ace your interview exceptionally well.
Here are tips to perform well in an interview and convince the hiring manager that you are the one for the job:
Tips for Before the Interview
● Research
The understanding of the key information about the company you are interviewing with, will instill a large amount of confidence in you.
Using the company’s website, social media posts, and individual employers’ blogs will give you a good understanding of the company’s goals and how your background makes you a great fit. Talk to your friends and contacts too to have a firm grasp of the company and why it’s hiring.
● Prepare for common questions
Pick the questions asked commonly and list which of them you are likely to encounter. Then start preparing well-thought out answers so that you can confidently face the interviewer.
“Tell me about yourself, and why you are interested in this role with our company?” is the most common question. This question can be utilized for your personal elevator pitch. You can quickly communicate who you are and what value you will bring to the company and the role.
● Carefully read the job description and prepare your stories
Reread the job description and find out the specific skills the employer is looking for. You must be ready with stories from your past and current work that can comply with the requirements. Use them to show how you have come up with a solution to a problem or brought about a great outcome or supported during a crisis or created new methods or overcame a weakness etc. You can use the STAR method to tell stories with a clear Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Tell your skill first and then give an example.
● Express a key message
Prepare to go into every interview with three to five key points, such as what makes you the best fit and an example for each key point. Also prepare to tell the interviewer why you want the job.
● Prepare smart questions for your interviewer
Employers expect intelligent questions that demonstrate that you have a good knowledge about the company and you are really serious about the job. You can try an all-purpose question like, ” What kind of person would be your choice for this position?”
Asking questions also gives you an opportunity to find out if the company is suitable for you.
● Practice
You need to answer interview questions aloud in a confident and convincing manner. For this, you need to practice. Say them to yourself in a mirror, or record them or ask friends or family to do some mock interviews with you. While talking about yourself and your skills, feel comfortable and be yourself. Think of the whole process as a ‘conversation’ rather than an interview so that you are not intimidated.
● Prepare reference lists
You might be required to submit a list of references before or after your interview. Prepare the list ahead of time.
Tips for During the Interview
● Use the right body language
Non-verbal communication also creates a great impression. In everything you do, project an attitude of energy, enthusiasm and interest. Sit or stand tall with your shoulders back, smile confidently, make eye contact and connect with a firm handshake. The employer must get the feeling that you are glad to be there and you want the job.
● Dress professionally
Your attire should be based on the company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible, find about the company dress code before the interview through its website, and social media output. You must appear well-groomed too.
● Bring copies of your resume, a notebook, and a pen
Take at least five copies of your printed resume on clean paper in case of multiple interviewers. Highlight important achievements on your copy for easy reference and discussion. A small notebook and pen can help you take notes. Having an extra copy of the resume will also help if the interviewer has misplaced his or her copy.
● Show authenticity and positivity
Be genuine during interview conversations. Show positivity with a smile and upbeat language. Respond truthfully to the questions asked. Focus on your key strengths and why you qualify for the job. Do not dwell on negative experiences even if the interviewer asks such questions.
● Listen and answer concisely
Listen to every direct or indirect information the interviewer provides. Do not ramble when answering questions. Stay focused on relevant information.
● Do not speak negatively about your previous employers
Focus on talking about your positive experiences and what you want to do next. Companies would like to hire problem solvers, not ones who are complainers and indiscreet.
Tips for After the Interview
● Ask about next steps
After your interview, you can enquire what you should expect next. It can be likely a follow-up email with interview results or additional requirements or reference list or another interview.
● Send a personalized thank you letter
You can send a follow-up email to the interviewers utilizing the notes you took during the conversations.
Studies indicate that interviewers make up their minds about the candidates in the first few seconds. Make sure that you utilize that time to the fullest and create a great first impression. Put up your best performance in the later part, so that the interviewers can find those things that can confirm their decisions.
