Interviewing Is Intimidating.....Here Are Some Helpful Tips!
Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, here are some key tips to help you prepare and excel in your next interview.
Research the Company: Before heading into an interview, it's crucial to research the company thoroughly. Review the company's mission statement, values, products/services, and recent news. Google search the company and review them on Glassdoor. Search the person you are interviewing on LinkedIn to get to know more about them, their similar connections, and their experience.
Understand the Job Description: Carefully review the job description and make a note of the key qualifications and requirements. Think about how your skills, experience, and achievements align with those requirements. Be prepared to speak to specific examples that highlight your experience for the role during the interview. Also, make sure you review if it's a remote, hybrid, or onsite position.
Practice Your Responses: Take the time to practice your responses to common interview questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers for behavioral questions. Indeed has a good STAR interview guide section. This will help you provide concise and structured responses that showcase your abilities and accomplishments.
Dress Appropriately for both an Onsite and Video Interview: Your appearance matters during an interview. Dress professionally, pay attention, and have a good background set if it's a video interview. Also, make sure you limit any distractions you might have around you if you are scheduled for a video interview. Your attire should convey that you take the opportunity seriously and are a professional candidate.
Ask Questions and Take Notes: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer and make sure you bring something to take notes on. This demonstrates your interest in the company and the position. Ask about the company's or team's goals, and team culture, and discuss any metrics and expectations for the role. This will help you assess if the company is the right fit for you and will also allow you to stand out as an engaged and curious candidate. Ensure you also demonstrate your soft skills such as your communication skills, ability to work in a team, and adaptability. Use specific examples from your past experiences to highlight these skills during the interview.
Be Yourself: Be yourself and let your personality shine. Avoid memorizing scripted answers or exaggerating your qualifications. Interviewers appreciate genuine and honest candidates who can bring their unique perspectives and skills to the table.
Follow-Up: After the interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly summarize why you are the ideal candidate for the role. This small gesture can leave a positive impression and set you apart from other candidates. Also, don't be afraid to ask for feedback from the interviewer or the recruiter. Positive and negative feedback is helpful. Any feedback is a gift!
By researching the company, understanding the job description, practicing your responses, dressing appropriately, asking questions, demonstrating your skills, being authentic, and following you can increase your chances of interview success.
