Interview
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Your application got you noticed - congratulations! Now for the next step -the interview. In many cases, this is the first face-to-face interaction you have with your potential employer, so it’s paramount that you make a memorable first impression. The interview is your chance to show your potential employer that you are the best fit for the job. From the preparation to the follow-up, here are some tips on how to have a successful job interview.
Before
Do your research. By gathering information on the company, you can anticipate the types of questions that the interviewer will ask, and you can ask informed questions of your own. Most importantly, having insight into the company will help you stand-out from other candidates. Good research techniques would include the following:
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Review the company's website and pay close attention to the company's background and mission statement. If possible, research the people that will be interviewing you. Use resources such as the company website and LinkedIn.
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Prepare questions to ask your potential employer. Show genuine interest by asking relevant questions about the company or position that you are applying for. Make sure that your questions go beyond surface level; the answers to your questions should not be found on the company’s website.
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Know the interview type. There are various styles of interviews, so make sure that you are preparing for the right one.
Practice answering interview questions. While the interview structure may differ, the basic questions will generally stay the same. By practicing how to answer common interview questions, you'll be able to confidently answer the basics and put your best foot forward in the actual interview. The next level of preparation is to anticipate any questions that are specific to the company. Write these questions down as they come to mind and practice responding to them!
Think of personal stories to share in advance. Potential employers are likely to present you with questions that will test how you will perform in professional situations. Interviewers are aware that the way you handled professional situations previously is a strong indicator of how you may respond to similar situations in the future. Your answer will have more merit if you share a story where you handled a similar professional situation rather than giving a hypothetical response.
Pack your interview essentials. Having all of the necessary items shows that you prepared and thought ahead. Items to bring to an interview would include:
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Folder
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Copies of resume
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References
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Business card(s)
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Portfolio and work samples
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Pen(s) and notepad
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Questions
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Directions and contact information
Plan your route. Do a Google Maps search of the interview location and choose a primary and a backup route. If possible, drive out to the location prior to the interview so you know exactly how to get there. On the day of the interview, check the traffic report and be sure to give yourself plenty of time to arrive between 10-15 minutes early.
Choose your attire. Knowing what you are going to wear means that you will have one less thing to think about on the morning of the interview.
Be well rested. A good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast will help you stay alert and focused.
During
Be mindful. Your interview begins the moment you step into the building. Be professional at all times, as your waiting room manners will be observed and may potentially be reported back to the interviewer. Turn off any electronics and put them out of sight before entering the interview.
Shake the interviewer’s hand upon meeting them. Handshakes are a key element to making a good first impression. Make your handshake firm but not overpowering.
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Maintain eye contact. This demonstrates to the interviewer that you are listening to them and that your attention is centered on the interview.
Wait a brief moment before answering a question. Doing this will allow you to collect your thoughts and give an intelligent answer. By pausing momentarily, you also show the interviewer that you are taking their question seriously and putting thought into your response.
Be genuine. Interviewers can tell when someone is trying too hard to impress them, and doing so will only discredit you. Instead of consciously trying to make a perfect impression, direct your energy towards allowing your personality and professionalism to shine through.
Dress appropriately. First impressions are made in the first few seconds, so it's important to look professional but not over-the-top. Depending on the workplace, it may help to research or ask an employee about the general dress code. The general rule of thumb of interview attire is to dress more formally than you would if you were on the job.
What I Learned From 32 Grueling Interviews - Ashwini Bhagat
Thank your interviewer. First, thank them in person and shake their hand. Second, send a thank you email or drop off a handwritten card within at least 24 hours. Sending thank yous is becoming less common, and therefore the gesture will not only show your appreciation but will also set you apart from other candidates.
Follow-up with a letter or a phone call. A follow-up is separate from a thank you, but equally important. Depending on the interview, the interviewer will either contact you or it may be your responsibility. Start your follow-up by stating your name, the position you applied for, and the person you interviewed with. Once again, be sure to show your appreciation and highlight your strongest qualifications.
Self-reflect. While the interview is still fresh in your mind, write down what you think went well and what you would like to improve on. Learning from past experiences will help you refine your interview techniques and bring you closer to landing a job offer.
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After