Preparing for Job Interviews: Tips and Techniques
Research the Employer
Investing time to research potential employers is a key step to a successful job interview. Explore company websites, social media pages, and read reviews to gain insight into the culture of a business. Employers are looking for confident, informed candidates that have taken the initiative to learn about the company. Make sure to highlight any applicable experience or knowledge in the interview process to stand out from the crowd.
Create a Professional Resume
Preparing a resume for a job interview is often one of the most overlooked steps during the job hunt. Make sure to have a well-designed resume focused on the job in question to ensure employers know what applicants bring to the table. Highlight special skills, and be sure to include accurate contact information. Freshen up the resume and consider adding any recent certifications, references or awards that could increase the applicant's value.
Take Care of Logistical Items
Turning up to a job interview late can have a devastating effect on potential employers. Being organized plays a vital role in preparing for a job interview. On the day, double-check the time of the interview, plan out transport, and dress professionally. Radius for delays, and arrive at least 10-15 minutes earlier to give enough time to gather thoughts.
Be Confident and Be Yourself
Job interviews can be daunting situations. Displaying confidence and being personable go a long way with employers. Showcase strengths through anecdotes that demonstrate competence. Listen to the interviewer carefully, be honest when answering questions, and make sure to elaborate on key points. Last but not least, keep practising interview questions to build the necessary confidence to thrive during job interviews.
Be Prepared for Questions
Expect to answer a range of questions at a job interview. Employers want to understand candidate strengths, relevant experience, knowledge and how they can contribute to the role. Come prepared with answers for potential questions. Make sure to practice traditional questions such as “what is your greatest strength” and “what is your greatest weakness” to ensure preparedness. Additionally, have examples ready to justify past experience, qualifications, and education.
Have Questions Prepared
At the end of the job interview, most employers give applicants a chance to ask questions about the business and role. Prepare 3-5 questions to gain more insight into the position, responsibilities, and workplace culture. Take this opportunity to further demonstrate knowledge about the company and highlight interests regarding the role. Additionally, come prepared to discuss desired salary, holidays, and work hours.
Show Gratitude
Job interviews often require a large portion of employers' time. End the interview in the best way possible by sending a thank you note. This will show the interviewer that applicants appreciate their effort to meet them and help them understand how valuable applicant can be for the job. Additionally, a follow-up email will help to maintain a professional dialogue and keep applicant in the interviewer’s memory.