How to Master Interviewing

Job interviews serve two functions: to weed out unqualified candidates and to attract stronger ones. During interviews, hiring managers look for confident, enthusiastic and motivated individuals. If you struggle with the stress of interviewing, brush up on some interview tips to improve your skills and maximize your chances of securing an offer.

Basic interview tips consist primarily of telling you how to behave during and after an interview. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early, which is sufficient time to appear prepared without inconveniencing anyone. Always follow up with a thank-you note in which you reiterate your interest in the position and reference a specific conversational topic that you and your potential employer covered. Dress appropriately for the position and company culture, but if you are unsure, then err towards caution and select a business casual outfit. Research the company before you arrive, and come prepared to ask intelligent questions that demonstrate your interest and suitability for the position.

Prepare in advance for the interview. One interview tip that is often overlooked is arranging your paperwork. Print copies of your resume and cover letter and bring them in a folder for easy access. Interviewers usually have their own copies, but this allows you to follow along and refer to specific points.

An important interview tip to impress potential employers is to let a polished version of your personality shine through during the interview. Assume that if you've received an interview, you are seen as a qualified candidate. Understand that hiring managers have moved onto assessing fit and personality. Try to make yourself as likable as possible without lying or exaggerating. Promising skills that you lack or getting outright caught in a lie negates any positive impression you make.

Some hiring managers favor a more aggressive interview style. The only way to prepare for difficult or hostile interviews is to rehearse your answers with a friend who can be trusted to provide honest feedback not just about the quality of your answers but also about your body language, eliminating visible signs of hesitation and anxiety as much as possible. Keep your voice consistent and calm, and never sound defensive or raise your voice. Do not take these questions personally, as interviewers sometimes adopt such tactics to eliminate candidates that deal poorly with stress.

No matter the tone of the interview, the best interview tip is to focus on your strengths and direct the conversation towards your accomplishments whenever possible. Be able to assess your strengths, skills and accomplishments and articulate how they apply to the position you're being interviewed for. Emphasize how you are uniquely qualified and what you can personally contribute to the company.

Most interview tips boil down to two basics: confidence and preparation. Visible nervousness can destroy your credibility or undermine your qualifications, while a lack of preparation indicates a potential for sloppy, lazy or unprofessional work. The interview is your only chance to impress an employer, so practice mock interviews to develop the skills you need to excel.

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