How to Prepare for a Job Interview

Seven Job Interview Tips: Tried, Proven, and True!

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Getting ready for a job interview can feel a bit overwhelming, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can hold your head up high and walk in confidence as you look forward to embracing any furture opportunities with much success.

Seven Steps to Prepare for a Job Interview:

1. Research the Company: It is very important to have a thorough understanding of the company and of the role or position for which you are applying. It is a good idea to visit the company's website and familarize yourself with their mission statement and values. Take notes to keep handy during your interview and also jot down any recent news that might also be relevant. Most people do not do this. This information will not only make you stand out from other applicants, but it can also help you to tailor your answers while demonstrating your interest in the company.

   
   

   

   
   

2. Review the Job Description: You should review the job description and fully understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the position. This will help you to prepare with thoughtful answers that align with the company's expectations while demonstrating that you are fit for the job. This is also a good time for you to think of any relevant experiences or skills you can highlight during the interview.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Practice Your Answers: One of the best ways to prepare for an interview is to practice your answers to common interview questions. (You can find a list of common interview questions here). Try having a friend or family member give you a "practice" interview or you can just simply practice out loud standing in front of a mirror. Whatever the case, be sure to focus on answering the questions directly while giving brief and clear statements that demonstrate your skills and experience.

   
   

   

   
   

4. Dress Appropriately: This tip is extremely important. First impressions are everlasting. As soon as you enter the room and before you say one single word, your appearance speaks volumes about you. I am from an era where we were taught business etiquette in high school. Apparently, this is no longer the norm and, sadly, it shows. You should never wear jeans and tennis shoes to a job interview. I don't care if you are interviewing to be a cashier or the next CEO to a huge company. Men should either wear a business suit or a jacket with a button-down shirt, tie, slacks, and nice dress shoes. No exception. Women should wear a modest dress or skirt with a blazer or a nice pantsuit with dress shoes. Dress conservatively and opt for neutral colors like black, grey, navy, or white. This is not the time to show cleavage or to wear something that you would wear to a club. Your clothes should be clean and free of any wrinkles. I should not have to say this, but take a shower, wash your hair, and clean the dirt from under your nails. Dress professionally and go easy on any perfume or cologne. If you don't care about yourself, why should anyone trust you with caring about their company and its values?

   
   

   

   
   

5. Arrive Early: You should plan to arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes early for your job interview. This gives you plenty of time to find parking, check in with the receptionist, use the restroom, and calm your nerves before the interview. I always did a test run the day before just to make sure I was familiar with the parking garage and the location of the job site I was visiting. Arriving early shows professionalism, punctuality, and reliability all demontrating to the interviewer that you respect their time and that you are prepared.

   
   

   

   
   

6. Bring a Copy of Your Resume: Even if you have already sent in a resume electronically or through the company's website, please make sure you bring additional copies of your resume. I have unexpectantly had other people attend my job interviews who requested copies of my resume; Thankfully for me, I always carry a business portfolio (or folder) with my planner, notepad, certificates, letters of recommendation, other important documents, and additional copies of my resume if needed. Having additional copies of your resume shows that you are well-organized and prepared. It also helps to have one in front of you during your interview to refresh your memory. This can help answer any questions about your past work history and accomplishments. If you don't have a resume and need help writing one, you may want to try Resume Writing Group.

   
   

   

   
   

7. Follow Up: After the interview, send a follow-up email or a thank-you note to the interviewer. Again, most people skip this step and it's very important. This shows that you are interested in the position and that you appreciate, not only the consideration for the role, but also for the already given opportunity for the interview.

   
   
   
   

   Additional Prep Tips

   
   

   • Listen carefully during the interview and ask questions. In addition, take a moment to gather your thoughts before answering a question. And, remember to give a clear and concise response.

   • Be Authentic and let your personality shine through. This can make you stand out from other candidates and help your interviewer get a better sense of who you are and where you fit into the company.

   • Show enthusiasm and passion for the position and company. This can help to show your commitment and can make a positive impression on the inverviewer.

   • Follow professional etiquette during the interview. Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, maintaining appropriate eye contact. Avoid interrupting or talking over the interviewer.

   • Maintain good posture during the interview. This shows confidence and professionalism. You should sit up straight with your shoulers back and your feet firmly on the ground. Ladies, if you must, you should cross your legs with modesty, never showing any thigh. Keep your dress or skirt pulled down over your knees. Avoid fidgeting or slouching. This can convey nervousness or a lack of confidence.

   • Don't be shy to showcase and highlight your accomplishments during the interview. Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and experience; Explain how they would be beneficial to your role in the company.

   • Research the interviewer. This can give you insight into their background. I once asked the interviewer a few questions that she was not expecting and this helped to build rapport and it can also help to establish common ground during the interview.

   • Be prepared to address weaknesses. Your weaknesses are also your strengths! When asked about any weaknesses, be honest and give contructive feedback on how you are working to improve. This demontrates a willingness to learn to grow. And, please know that it is okay if you don't know something. Simply just say, "I am not familiar with that, but I can learn!" Confidence is key! Now go out there and shine!

     
     

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     Author’s Bio

     Isabella Boston

     Isabella Boston is a Wordsmith and the creator of Bella’s Attic Studio. She is well-versed in copywriting, articles and research, and medical content writing with a focus on traumatic brain injury (TBI), autoimmune disorders, and inflammation within the body. She is also a diarist and the author of Passion of Flames.

     
     

     When Isabella is not writing, she enjoys reading, fashion, learning new languages, and spreading God’s Holy Word.