Congratulations! You’ve finally got that job interview scheduled! Now, you need to get ready for it. But don’t worry, we’ve got the tips you need. Here’s a quick look at how to be successful at a job interview.
First Impressions
It doesn’t matter how well you’ve prepared for questions and everything else if you don’t remember the golden rule for interviews – you never get a second chance to make a great first impression. Plan what you want to wear and dress for the job you want. Whether it’s a suit and tie, dresses for curvy women, or anything else, look your best. Don’t forget the details, like shining your shoes, ensuring your nails are tidy and clean, and making sure that your clothes have been ironed and are free from things like loose threads, pet hair, stains, and holes. Above all, make sure that you yourself are clean, smell nice, are well-groomed, and presentable.
Do Your Research
Once you’re ready to make a fantastic first impression, you need to understand critical information regarding the business so that you can enter that interview with a sense of confidence. Check out the company’s recent press releases, website, and social media accounts to gain a good understanding of their goals and how you can fit in with those goals.
The more that you can find out about the company in your research, the better it will be for you. Proper research not only gives you insight into the company, but it can also give you hints about how to answer a few of the questions that interviewers might ask.
And Speaking of Questions…
Get your answers ready for some of the most commonly asked interview questions. One of them might be “Tell me a little bit about you and your interest in working for the company.” The thing is, you should be able to quickly let them know exactly who you are and what it is that you bring to the company that’s unique. The better prepared you are for these questions, the better your interview will go.
References
A lot of interviewers will require a list of references to be submitted before your interview. Having a list of references ready before that time when you’re asked can assist you with quickly completing this step so that you’ll be better able to move along the path to being hired.
Work Samples
During the course of the interview questions, one might be regarding specific work you’ve done in the past (or work situations), that is relevant to the position you’re being interviewed for. Once you’ve taken a good look at the job description, sit down and think about the types of work you’ve done in the past, or even things you may have done in volunteer positions or in clubs that demonstrate your ability to be successful at the work the company will require you to complete.
Prepare Your Questions
Interviews can be thought of as a two-way street. Potential employers expect their candidates to ask them questions. This gives them the impression that you’re seriously considering what it might be like to work for them. Good things to ask might include things like the responsibilities of the job, characteristics of someone who could perform well in that role, and how performance is measured.
Finally, once the interview is over, send a personalized thank you note to the interviewer. During your interview, get their business card so that you’re able to follow up with them individually with an email. If you were interviewed during the morning, make sure to send that email on the very same day. If your interview is later in the day, send it the following morning.
