You landed the job interview! Congratulations! Now what?
By this point you’ve likely spent significant time and effort exploring different careers, writing resumes and filling out job applications. The work isn’t over. Now, it is time to prepare for the interview so you can make a great first impression. Here are some tips on how to persuade the hiring manager that you are the best person for the job.
Before the Interview
Research the Company
In the days leading up to the interview, spend some time reviewing the company’s website. Make sure you have a solid understanding of the company’s mission, as well as its products and/or services. A great place to get this information is the “About Us” section on the company’s website. You can also find out about current events and corporate news by reading press releases.
Study the Job Details, Take Notes and Practice, Practice, Practice
Read the job description closely. What skills and experiences are they seeking that match your background? Write down some key points, including notes about where you gained that experience. Practice your answers to common, basic questions like “Why are you interested in working for our company?” and “Why are you interested in this position?” Many interviews kick off with a simple “Tell me about yourself” request. You do not need to memorize your responses, but it is a good idea to write down a few notes to jog your memory during the interview. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will be in the interview. Your response to these basic questions is often referred to as a 30-second elevator pitch. You want to let the company know why you are the best person for the job. This is your opportunity to brag about your accomplishments.
Jot down some questions you would like to ask the interviewer. Perhaps you saw something on the website that you would like to learn more about. Would you like clarification on any of the job responsibilities? Another great question to ask is, “What is a day on the job like?” Asking questions about the company demonstrates your interest in the job and helps you determine if the job is a good fit for you. Remember, the interview goes both ways — they are assessing if you are a good fit for the company while you are considering if it is the right opportunity for you.
Take Care of the Logistics
Once you are invited to an interview, write down the date and time of your interview. Also, take note of the name and title of the individual who will interview you. Check out their bio on the company website or LinkedIn so you know a little about the person or people interviewing you. Also write down their phone number, just in case you need to contact them on your way to the interview.
Make a plan to get to the interview and set a time to leave. Are you taking a bus or a train? Make sure you know your routes and departure times, as well as walking instructions from the station to the interview site. Make sure to leave plenty of extra time in case of delays. Driving? Map it and print out the instructions or have the destination set in your cell phone’s map app. Make sure your car has plenty of gas. If possible, do a test run a few days before the interview, particularly if it is located in an area in which you are not familiar. It will build your confidence and reduce stress on the day of the interview if you know where you are going.
Be ready to dress for success. Practice good personal hygiene; shave or get a haircut if needed. Plan your outfit. Unless the interviewer or your job coach say otherwise, plan to wear a business professional outfit such as slacks (or skirt) and a button-down shirt. Iron your clothes if needed. Don’t forget to also plan your dress shoes and any accessories. In addition to making a great first impression, dressing nice is known to boost confidence.
Make sure all of your contact information is correct on your resume and print a few copies to take with you. Get a good night’s rest!
Day of the Interview
The moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived — it’s interview day!
Get ready early. Don’t wait until the last minute and risk being rushed. Take a relaxing shower, brush your teeth and hair, and eat a healthy meal so you’ll have the energy to get through the day. Wait until a little before you need to leave to put on your outfit to avoid spills and wrinkles. Leave earlier than you think is necessary.
If all went smoothly and you didn’t need to use your buffer time, you will likely arrive very early. If so, take a few minutes to relax somewhere nearby, use the bathroom and touch up your outfit, hair, makeup, etc. if needed. Give yourself a pep talk: “I will do great at this interview! I am the best person for this job!” Wait until about 15 minutes before the interview to enter the office and check in for the interview. Remember, your interview starts as soon as you enter the parking lot; be kind and polite to everyone you encounter.
If unforeseeable circumstances (traffic accident, bus breaks down, etc.) come up and you can’t get to the interview on time or at all, call the interviewer to explain the situation as soon as you realize your arrival time is in jeopardy. Don’t panic. Despite all the best planning, these things happen.
During the Interview
Listen attentively. Look directly at the person you are addressing. Sit up straight in the chair. And, don’t forget to smile!
Speak with confidence. Check your notes occasionally to make sure you cover the important points you jotted down earlier. Only answer the questions they ask; do not give extra information. Keep your responses employment-related and relevant to the current discussion. Pause in between thoughts to give time for others to join the conversation. Don’t forget to ask your questions — always ask at least one. Unless the interviewer brings up pay, it is better to wait until a post-interview conversation or second interview to bring up the topic.
After the Interview
Send a thank you email within one day of the interview. Thank all the interviewers for their time and briefly reiterate your interest in the position. In a sentence or two, summarize your skills and experience that qualify you for the position. Wait two weeks before you follow up to see if you got the position.
