You just received an email that you have been invited to an interview for a job position at a respectable company. It is a great opportunity for your career, so it is important to make a great first impression on your potential employer. Even then, you can never be fully prepared for all the different scenarios at that moment; it’s much better to learn as much as you can. It’s known that job interviews are stressful and that it takes time and several conversations with different employers before you know how to behave and what questions to ask or expect. Let’s go through some of the key steps to have a successful job interview and get that job you have been dreaming of.
Do Thorough Research
If you applied for a job at a certain company, it means you are interested in working for them and that you will make a great team. This is why you should arrive at an interview with solid knowledge of what the company does, its accomplishments, and future goals. Go through their official website or social media accounts, and you’ll find everything you need for your interview. Knowing the details of their work will make you stand out from all the other candidates. They are proud of their past achievements, no matter how big or small, so they’ll surely be happy if someone else appreciates it as well. Also, think about how you could contribute to their future projects with the skills you have and try to discuss it with them if the opportunity presents itself.
Know Your Resume
Another useful tip you should do before the interview is knowing your biography front to back. Nobody else can present you better than yourself. Learning everything you put in your resume makes you ready for questions regarding your previous jobs or your skills. This is one of the reasons you should feel confident about all the things you wrote in your CV. The final decision of the employer is partly based on a CV, so be careful with what you write since they will expect you to implement all skills you mentioned when you start working for them. Think about all the questions they could ask you about your previous job, such as how long you worked there or the reasons why you left. All in all, refresh your resume every once in a while. Many things could have changed since the last time you applied for a job. An extra tip is to bring your resume with you because they may have misplaced it, and you don’t want time wasted on trying to find your biography.
Dress Appropriately
If the company promotes a casual dress code, you shouldn’t come to an interview with that mindset. You are still not their employee so you should think formal wear or at least business casual. This means you are serious about this and that you show respect for their brand. If you think you will overdo your outfit, you can always research their policy or even ask someone who works there. It’s advisable not to wear bold colors or patterns. Stick to simple pieces such as shirts and trousers in a calm color palette. Of course, make your clothes fit so it’s not too tight or baggy. If you are a big jewelry lover, stick to simple pieces such as delicate rings or stud earrings. However, what makes your business outfit complete will always be a good watch. Keep it simple by buying jewelry pieces from experienced professionals at the jewelry store you trust. It should go with your style but also with the job interview you have scheduled.
Body Language
Non-verbal communication is equally important as verbal communication. Your body shows whether you are confident or terrified of what’s to come the very moment you enter the building. It is impossible to be completely laid-back before an interview but try to work on your deep breaths since it can slow down your heart rate and make you more relaxed. Be friendly and put a smile on your face. If you cross your arms and slouch back on your chair, they won’t be happy to have a coworker like you. If you want to nail your interview, lean towards them and make eye contact so they know you are fully involved in the conversation.
Follow up
Sending a thank-you email is rather neglected even though it could make the employer’s decision-making a lot easier. After the interview, no matter how good or bad it went, send an email explaining how you appreciate their time and that you believe that job is the right one for you. This shows you are interested in that position and that you want to implement your knowledge in their projects. Send your follow-up letter no later than 24 hours after the interview because their memory of you is still fresh.
The Takeaway
Do your best at preparing for questions and doing detailed research. Don’t be afraid to say what you have to offer the company. You should be confident in your skills and knowledge. Be professional from beginning till the end, from the way you dress to the way you greet the interviewers. All in all, you made an effort to do well, no matter the outcome. Every job interview is good practice for your career.
