Interviewing like a pro involves more than answering questions. Your goal is to make a lasting impression that will advance the hiring process.
Knowing how to prepare and engage helps you make an impact during an interview. The following tips can help you impress any employer.
Research the Job and Company
Visit the company’s website and social media pages to learn about the job and organization. Also, visit employer review sites to learn what working for the company is like.
Focus on the following details when researching the job and company:
- Company History
- Mission, vision, and values
- Products or services
- Latest news
- Competitors
- Job duties and responsibilities
- Manager’s expectations
- Salary range
- Benefits package
- Location
Practice Answering Interview Questions
Prepare your answers to common interview questions relevant to the job and industry. Focus on how your knowledge, skills, experience, and accomplishments can provide value to the organization.
Include relevant work-related stories when answering interview questions. Consider using the situation, task, action, and result (STAR) method to guide your responses:
- Provide the context for the situation
- Describe the task
- Share the actions taken to complete the task
- Describe the result of your actions
Wear Appropriate Interview Attire
When choosing your interview attire, follow the company’s dress code. To stand out, select a slightly more formal outfit. You can call Human Resources to determine appropriate attire.
Minimize any makeup or jewelry for the interview. Also, avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or other scents that could distract the interviewer.
Arrive Early for Your Interview
Use your preferred commute method to practice traveling to the office days before your interview. Ensure you allow adequate commute time so you arrive 10 minutes early. Be mindful that traffic flow, construction, and related issues can impact your commute, especially if you take public transportation.
Monitor Your Body Language
Maintain open body language throughout your interview. For instance, smile and maintain eye contact as you shake the interviewer’s hand. Also, make regular eye contact, nod, and gesture during the conversation to show engagement.
Ask the Interviewer Questions
Use your job and company research and what you learned during the interview to ask questions. For instance, ask about the company’s culture, role expectations, and advancement opportunities. Demonstrating interest in the job and company increases the likelihood of advancement in the hiring process.
Send a Thank-You Note
Email each interviewer to thank them for taking the time to meet with you. Include three main topics discussed and your top three job qualifications. Share that you look forward to hearing back soon.
Would You Like Additional Interview Advice?
Work with HireCall for additional guidance, coaching, and support during your job search. Visit our job board to apply for a role today.
