Job Interview Tips
Job interviews are designed to see if you are an ideal candidate for the position and to determine if you possess the skillsets written on your resume. Preparing for an interview can be split into three phases: pre, day of, and post interview. In this section, we’ll go over the different phases and what you can do to be as prepared as possible.
Pre – Interview
Research
One of the best things you can do to prepare yourself is to understand the company’s goals and culture. Visit their website and look for their mission statement. Mission statements typically highlight company goals and visions. To understand the company culture, look at their social media sites (Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn) or even their company website. Ensure that the company’s culture aligns with yours.
Review the job description
Focus on the keywords written within the job description. This includes the skills or tasks companies have listed in their posting. Try to use your past and current experiences to relate towards the requirements.
List of references
References are important to have. It is best to get references from professional individuals who can attest to your work ethic and character. Try to get references letters from you former boss or coworker, professors, or even clients.
Practice Interview Questions
The questions typically asked during an interview could be categorized into a few basic categories: general, behavioral, salary, and questions about you. Your answers should be succinct but provide enough context. Remember, it is important that your answers are honest and truthful.
· What makes you unique?
· What are your greatest weaknesses, what are your greatest strengths?
· How do you deal with stressful situations.
Examples of your work
You may be asked relevant questions about specific tasks related to the position.
Try to think about examples or experiences from your past or current experience.
Day of the Interview
Dress to impress
First impressions are everything when it comes to interviewing. Ensure that you are dressed accordingly for the interview. Research the company to see their culture and how they dress. Additionally, try to be presentable. Brush/ style your hair, look at your hands (ensure you nails are cut and clean). You will also want to double check your clothes for pet hair, rips, and stains.
Early Arrival
Arrive 10-15 minutes early prior to your interview. Use the time to review your resume, fill out additional paperwork, or prepare mentally.
Providing Answers
Listen to the question being asked. Answer with truth and honesty. Try your best to keep your answers succinct, but thorough and focused. How you answer questions demonstrates your ability to communicate.
Post Interview
Thank-you letter
Send your interviewer a thank-you email. If your panel consisted of multiple interviewers, ask for a business card from each of them to send a personal thank-you email. You want to send the email off within 24 hours of your interview.