Even the most skilled and qualified candidates can end up not landing a job because they don’t perform well in interviews. It’s a common stumbling block that can turn a promising application into a missed opportunity. This is because recruiters place a high emphasis on a candidate's confidence during job interviews.
According to Forbes magazine, our brains make a thousand computations during the first seven seconds we see someone. From our physical appearance to the way we dress, all of this information plays an important part in our first impressions. Hence, it is necessary to perform well during the job interview. To do this, you have to prepare yourself!
Here are the How’s
1. Research the Organization
You have to start with IMPACT! To ensure you make a great start in your job search, it's essential to thoroughly research the company you're applying to. Check out their website to understand their history, mission, and values.
Read recent news articles about them, look at their press releases, and browse their social media to get a feel for their current atmosphere and company culture. This research will help you align your responses to the company, making your interview more impressive and memorable.
2. Read the Job Description
“The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.”
- Mark Twain
Failing to thoroughly review a job description means missing out on important insights that can set you apart. Carefully read the job description to identify the key responsibilities and qualifications the employer is seeking. Reflect on how your skills and experiences align with these qualifications, and prepare specific examples to illustrate your fit. Drawing from prior work or academic experiences will help you craft compelling responses and showcase your suitability for the role.
3. Practice Common Interview Questions
What makes Michael Jordan a great basketball player? It’s his hard work and dedication to practice. Even after being cut from his high school team, Jordan practiced nonstop and eventually became one of the best players ever.
In the same way, practicing answers to common interview questions—like: "Tell me about yourself" or "What are your strengths and weaknesses?” or “What would make me want to work here?”—can really help you succeed. While you might not know every question ahead of time, being ready for the usual ones can show that you’re prepared and determined.
4. Brainstorm Your Own Questions
Interviewing is always a two-way street. Come up with a handful of questions you can ask the interviewer that helps you asses more on the position to which you are applying, the company in general, and further steps to anticipate in the hiring process. Preparing questions will reflect your interest in the position and help you determine whether this company is good for you. Some of these questions include:
- "Would you be able to describe the team that I would be working with?"
- "What are the most pressing challenges to the company right now?"
- "What will be the next relevant part of the interview?"
5. Attach Required Papers
It's always smarter to have more than you need rather than risking being underprepared. Bringing extra copies of your resume, references, and any other relevant documents ensures you’re always prepared, even if unexpected situations arise.This extra effort demonstrates your organization and readiness, leaving a positive impression on your potential employer.
6. Arrive Early
Always ensure that you arrive at the venue 10 to 15 minutes early. Being on time is late to some people; it translates to punctuality. The extra few minutes before the interview will provide adequate time to collect your thoughts. For virtual interviews, ensure your devices work and log in a few minutes before the allotted start time.
7. Dress the Part
Be in the right place with the right presence. Dress appropriately on interview day. Research the company's dress code and choose attire that matches or exceeds the standard. When in doubt, it is better to err on the side of being overdressed, not under. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and fit you well.
8. Human Communication in Body Language
Your nonverbal communication is as good as your verbal. Hold good eye contact, offer a firm handshake, stand up straight, listen actively to cues, and be thoughtful with your responses. Also, remember to smile and show enthusiasm for this role and the company. Project confidence in the way you sit and the openness in your posture.
9. Know Your Resume Inside and Out
Talk smartly! Be prepared to talk about anything on your resume. Be ready with detailed examples and anecdotes illuminating your accomplishments: an employer might guide you toward expanding upon a few varied experiences or skills.
10. Manage Your Online Activity
Your online presence speaks volumes about you. Many employers will Google you before an interview, so ensure your social media profiles are professional and up-to-date. What you feed online reflects your personality and can influence their perception of you.
11. Plan Your Route
If the interview is in person, plan in advance exactly how you will reach the venue. Consider the likely traffic jams, public transport schedules, or possible disruptions and anticipate them. Showing up worried about a poor travel plan can be a performance hit.
12. Get a Feel for Practical Experience
Arrange a mock interview session with a friend, family member, or trusted mentor. This exercise will help you become familiar with the interview environment. It will also be a platform where you can receive feedback regarding your performance.
13. Be Prepared to Discuss Salary
You must be prepared for the "expected salary" question should it be posed. You should know industry standards for the particular job and how they relate to your bracket of experience to be able to put forth a pretty nice range. You should be honest with your expectations but, at the same time, be flexible.
14. Bring a Portfolio
Showcase what you can do! Bring a portfolio to show your work and what you can do with it. Your portfolio may include projects, writings, and designs, among other relevant materials, to demonstrate your capability.
15. Face Anxiety
Experiencing a bit of nervousness before the interview is quite normal. Try taking deep breaths, visualization, or other relaxation techniques if you are severely worried. After all, the interviewer has you sitting for a purpose—to look at you and judge whether your credentials match the job.
16. Use the STAR Method
Use the STAR method to your advantage when answering behavioral questions. The technique will help convey clear, sharp points that positively showcase your problem-solving capabilities and your ability to think on your feet.
17. Be Energetic
Show interest in the actual job and the company. Employers tend to hire a clearly interested candidate who is keen on getting a job and can hardly wait to start their professional life in this company.
18.Take Notes
Take some notes during the interview on the key topics you and the interviewer discuss: job details, company culture, and what to expect moving forward. These will become priceless to you when you send your thank-you email or during the follow-up interviews.
19. Follow Up
Send the interviewers a thank-you email immediately after an interview to thank them for offering you such an opportunity and to further express interest in the position you applied for. A follow-up email creates an excellent impression and keeps you at the top of their minds as they make hiring decisions.
Lastly, Prep with Swob!
Have you ever been rejected? It’s a common experience, but it’s important to remember that things often get better with professional guidance. Swob offers tools and resources that help you time with your job search and interview preparation. With Swob, you'll be able to:
- Access these virtual libraries containing common interview questions and best interview advice.
- Connect for one-on-one career guidance with a career coach.
- Use AI-driven tools to tailor your resume and cover letter.
- Join a community of job seekers for support and networking.
It takes a lot of work and attention to prep for an interview, but using these strategies can help you go into your next interview knowing that you are better prepared to land the job with complete confidence in your abilities. Good luck!
Swob is the modern job search platform with over 8 Million + active jobs. Match with hundreds of employers and get hired for roles across retail, hospitality, healthcare, customer service, and more. With Swob you can find your perfect match with a simple swipe. Download the app, upload your resume, and start swiping on success today! www.swobapp.com
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