How To Prepare For A Job Interview
Congratulations! After sending out multiple job applications, you’ve finally been offered a job interview. While you should take a moment to celebrate, it’s important that you now focus your attention on leaving a good impression and acing the interview. While there are multiple steps to take during this preparation, putting in the work ahead of time will put you in a better position to eventually land the job! Here are five things to do as you prepare for a job interview:
Research the company
Like the majority of job seekers, you likely did some company research before you applied to the role you’re interviewing for. However, now that you’ve been offered an interview, it’s time to put some extra research in as you prepare for a job interview. If you haven’t already, take the time to look up the company beyond their website. This can include researching key employees on LinkedIn, reading articles about the company’s achievements, and looking up company reviews on sites like Glassdoor.
Figure out logistics
Before your interview, it’s important to figure out all of the logistics. Depending on the type of interview you’re going into, there are key factors you’ll need to take into account. Some of these can include:
- Phone: If your interview is happening over the phone, be sure to find a quiet place in your home where you won’t be interrupted. Additionally, have supplies nearby in case you need to quickly jot something down during the interview. Read also: 5 Phone Interview Tips To Help You Land The Job
- Video: Similar to a phone interview, you’ll first want to ensure your interview “room” is free of any distracting noises or backgrounds. Next, you’ll want to check your technology set-up. Prior to the interview, make sure that you have a good internet connection and that your camera and microphone on your computer are working properly. Read also: Change Of Plans? How To Adapt To A Video Interview Process.
- In-person: If you’re going on an in-person interview, have your outfit set aside the night before and check to see what your commuting time looks like. Additionally, you’ll want to have multiple copies of your resume printed out should the hiring manager or anyone else meeting with you want one.
Anticipate common interview questions
Regardless of your field, there are some common questions that you’re likely going to be asked at some point during the interview. These kinds of questions can range from ‘why should I hire you’ to ‘what do you like to do for fun,’ and not preparing for them in advance can potentially harm your chances of landing the role. Before your interview, set aside some time to go over these types of questions and think about your response. Doing so will put you in a better position to leave a good impression on the hiring manager! Read also: 8 Interview Questions You Must Be Prepared For.
Come with questions of your own
At the end of the interview, the hiring manager is likely going to ask you if you have any questions. This is an excellent opportunity for you to get more insight into the company, so take some time before the interview to come up with several questions of your own about the specific position and the company. This can help further the conversation with the hiring manager and make yourself a more memorable and attractive candidate in the process.
Have a thank you note ready
After an interview, it’s critical that you show your appreciation for the interviewer and their time with a thank you note! To be timely, have the beginning of your thank you note started before the interview. Then, finish it up after the interview by adding detailed points from the conversation.
