The biggest mistake in interviewing is not being fully prepared. Although your resume lands you the interview, it is ultimately the interview that will get you the job. So, being well prepared for whatever an interviewer throws at you is crucial. Located below are a few simple tips that you can use to effectively handle the interview process:
1. Conduct Research
It’s important to be confident and prepared. Conduct research on companies of interest before applying to a job or showing up for an interview. By understanding and showing interest in the company, you can customize your pitch, demonstrate the value you will bring to the organization and confidently convince employers that you are the right candidate.
2. Practice Interviewing
Prepare for an interview by running through commonly asked interview questions. Understand that interviewing is a skill and as with any skill, practice makes perfect!
3. Dress Professionally
When you are on an interview, you are marketing yourself as the best candidate for the job, so it’s important to dress professionally. Appropriate attire and good personal hygiene demonstrates that you are not only willing to take that extra step to look your best but also do your best.
4. Make a Positive First Impression
First impressions are critical. Arrive early, give a firm handshake and make eye contact throughout the interview. It is important to be confident, but most importantly, be yourself!
5. Go Beyond the Canned Response
Behavioral interviewing is an ever-growing interview technique. Rather than merely telling the interviewer what you would do in a situation, demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and abilities by giving specific examples from past work experiences.
6. Ask Questions
Express interest and willingness to learn about the company by asking questions and listening to details about the organization. This portion of the interview is your chance to shine. Not having any questions for the interviewer can show that you are uninterested and unprepared.
7. Follow Up
Reinforce to the employer that you bring value to their organization by developing a well-written thank you note. A thank you note is an easy and surefire way to show your appreciation, reiterate you are the best candidate and demonstrate your initiative and follow-through. It is also appropriate to make a follow up call, unless instructed otherwise by the employer.