Searching for a new job can be stressful, and once you land that ever-so-important first interview, the nerves don't go away. You want to make the right first impression, and that can weigh on your mind as interview day approaches. If you’re prepping for a big interview, don’t worry! We have you covered with three simple tips to help you prepare.
1. Research the company.
The people who will interview you have already reviewed your résumé and basic information – so extend them the same courtesy. Look over the company website and familiarize yourself with its mission statements, values, and policies. This will help you connect your gifts and passions with the company’s goals during your interview.
Employers want people who are interested in adding to their company's story and mission. If you haven’t done your homework by researching the organization, you may seem like someone who just wants a job. Go above and beyond by showing your interviewers why you chose their company.
2. Prepare in advance.
Don’t wait until the day of the interview to get everything in order. Make sure you have all the supporting documents you need, directions to the interview location, and (of course) a confidence-boosting outfit picked out ahead of time. Practice possible interview questions with yourself or a friend. Some of the most common questions the come up in job interviews are:
- Why do you want this job?
- What are your biggest strengths/weaknesses?
- What skills do you have that no other applicants have?
- How do you handle stressful situations?
Prepping for your interview ahead of time will help you put your best foot forward, showing potential employers you are serious about the job. It’s also good to arrive at your interview at least 10 minutes early, so if you run into traffic or have trouble finding the right place, you won’t be late.
3. Ask good questions.
Most employers end an interview with, "Do you have any questions for us?" This is an employer's chance to see your curiosity and critical thinking at work. Go to your interview with a list of questions prepared beforehand because it might be hard to come up with them on the spot. Here are some possible questions to get you started:
- What are some examples of projects I’d be working on if I got hired for this role?
- What would a typical day look like for this position?
- Can you give me an example of a new hire who was successful in their position?
- How will you measure the success of this role?
- How would you describe your company culture?
- Is there anything on my résumé that concerns you or would keep you from hiring me?
Your questions are the last impression you’ll leave with potential employers, which is why it’s important to make sure you have good ones.
Landing an interview is exciting and sometimes daunting. If you have an interview standing between you and future opportunities, remember that research, preparation, and good questions will help you leave a lasting impact on potential employers. If you want more career tips, take a look at the rest of our blog.