Do you have a job interview on the horizon?
Acing a job interview has as much to do with the way you prepare as it does your poise and confidence in the interview chair. Taking time to prepare for the interview in advance can help you secure the job offer you seek.
There are a number of steps you can take before (and after) the interview to ensure that you make a terrific impression during the interview. In Part 1 of this multi-part series, we’ll focus on pre-interview preparation.
So to help you get prepared, here is a list of steps that you can take in order to feel more confident for the job interview:
- Analyze the Job
An important part of interview preparation is to take the time to analyze the job posting description. Organizations spend a significant chunk of time outlining the qualifications and attributes they are looking for. Make note of the skills, knowledge, and professional qualities the company seeks, as well as which qualities are critical to success in the job. Create a set of stories or anecdotes about your personal experiences which address these desired qualities. - Research the Company
Company research is a critical part of interview preparation. It will help you prepare to both answer interview questions about the company and ask the interviewer insightful questions about the organization.For a thorough understanding of the company, it’s important to review the company website, specifically the “About Us” page. The history of the organization may offer clues as to the culture of the organization and what it values. You can also check out company reviews from clients as well as current and former employees.
- Practice Interviewing
The interview offers you time to shine with the hiring manager. Take time to practice answering interview questions that you will probably be asked during your call or visit. This will help give you a chance to prepare and practice good answers, and will also help calm your nerves.Practice interviewing with a friend or family member ahead of time and it will be much easier when you’re actually in the job interview.
- Get Your Interview Clothes Ready
Regardless of the type of job you’re interviewing for, that first impression should be a great one. We recommend dressing up one level (but not more!) from what employees typically wear to work at this employer. When dressing for an interview for a professional position, dress accordingly in business attire. If you’re applying for a job in a more casual environment, such as a store or restaurant, it’s still important to be neat, tidy, and well-groomed, and to present a positive image to the employer.Don’t wait until the last minute to make sure your interview clothes are ready. Have an interview outfit ready to wear at all times, so you don’t have to think about what you’re going to wear.
Follow these tips and you will successfully know how to prepare for a job interview. Interviewers CAN tell whether a candidate has prepared or not.
(written by: wc)
