Preparation and Interview Tips

Your job interview is one of the most determining factors in finding career success. Prepare for this important endeavor well before you walk in the door to shake hands firmly with a hiring manager. Arm yourself with the tools you need to efficiently answer interview questions and impress potential employers.

Know Before You Go

Walk into a job interview with confidence by equipping yourself with information about the company. Research the mission statement and philosophy of the business, and learn the ins and outs of how the company operates. Scour the business website to learn about products and services provided, and network with professionals in the industry or current employees to inquire about the company culture. You can use this information to form interview questions for the hiring manager while also displaying your research efforts when discussing how you mesh well with the company's environment.

Practice, Practice, Practice

It is common for job seekers to struggle with nervousness before a job interview, but if your nerves get the best of you, it can taint your professionalism and make a questionable impression with the interviewer. Calm your nerves and build your confidence by practicing your responses to common questions asked during an interview. Meet with a mentor or professional from your network to stage a mock interview to prepare yourself for the big day. Research common questions and perfect your elevator pitch. Focus on your skills and experience that match the qualifications desired by the company so you can make a positive impression while also supplying the hiring manager with crucial details about your past positions. Study the job description to identify key words to use to describe your experience.

Plan Ahead

Avoid waiting until the last minute to plan your attire for a job interview. Instead, choose a professional outfit or suit that fits you comfortably and lay it out the night before the day of the interview. Shine your shoes, pay close attention to hygiene and push your hair away from your face when getting ready so you present yourself professionally. Avoid wearing jewelry or accessories that are distracting or noisy so the focus is on you and your skills when you are sitting in the hot seat. Set out items you need to bring such as a pen, notepad, application materials and reference letters so you can easily distribute these to the interviewer at the start of the job interview.

The process of preparing for a job interview can be stressful, but if you arm yourself with details about the company and professional responses to potential questions, you have the ability to charm and impress hiring managers. Enhance your credibility by planning ahead to show you are the ideal candidate for the position.

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