Congratulations on scaling the first hurdle. Yes, the hiring manager has noticed your resume and will like to interview you for the role. Now is not the time to relax but to up your game. Yes, it is the time to ace that interview. In this article, we will share 9 top interview tips to live by.
1. Do your research
Learning as much as possible about a company’s services, products, customers, and competition will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the employer’s needs. So, go beyond reading what is on the company’s website. Read news coverage of the company, check out the company’s social media feeds, and brush up on the key players including the company’s executive team.
Look for the information that you can weave into the conversation. This can be something their CEO said about a particular thing. For instance, at the interview, you can say something like
“I was excited to see your CEO talk about your company’s commitment to innovation on CNBC.”
2. Look sharp
There is certainly no shortage of advice out there about what to wear—and what not to wear—to interviews. If you wish, you may decide to dress conservatively. As long as you look presentable, the interviewer is going to be paying attention to what is coming out of your mouth, not what you are wearing.
Some job seekers make the mistake of donning distracting attire. Don’t do anything to the extreme, unless you know that that’s the culture at the company, Also, avoid wearing too much perfume, too much makeup, too many designer logos. This may cause distraction at the interview and it might not work in your favour. No doubt this made the list of our 9 top interview tips.
3. Arrive early
The last thing you want to do is show up late (or not at all). So, get to the building 10 to 15 minutes before the interview. Having extra time means you can take a few minutes in the bathroom to check how you look — tuck in your shirt, fix your tie, comb your hair — and fine-tune the image that you want to present.
4. Don’t show up empty handed
Part of arriving fully prepared entails bringing all the things that you need to make a great first impression. Make sure to take the following items with you to job interviews:
- Portfolio/work samples: This is necessary in creative fields like advertising, journalism, graphic design, architecture, or fashion.
- References: If the interview goes well, the hiring manager may ask you for them on the spot.
- Pen and notepad: Taking notes shows you’re actively listening to the interviewer and engaged in the conversation.
- Photo ID: You may need to provide identification to enter the building.
5. Project enthusiasm
The hiring manager will want to see that you are passionate about your field and the job that you are applying for. So, bring some energy to the room. A firm handshake and plenty of eye contact demonstrate confidence, Also, speak distinctly in a confident voice, even though you may feel shaky.
6. Listen carefully
Learning how to listen—really listen—is a powerful thing. Don’t interrupt when the other person is talking; maintain good eye contact, lean forward, and face the speaker directly; and put away your cell phone.
7. Ask relevant questions
Hiring managers often conclude job interviews by giving the candidate a chance to ask them questions. While you may be tempted to skip this part and run for the exit, it would be a terrible mistake. Take full advantage of this opportunity. A few recommendations of questions you can ask are:
- What do you expect me to accomplish in the first 90 days?
- Are there opportunities for additional training and education?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- How is performance measured in this role?
So, have a list of 2 or 3 questions you will ask the interviewer.
8. End on the right note
An essential step to nabbing a job is following up with the interviewer.. Before you leave the room, remember to ask about the next steps.
9. Ace the follow-up
Following up is a critical part to getting hired. Yet, it is often overlooked. The goal is two-fold: to stay top-of-mind and restate your interest. So, don’t miss this great opportunity to reconnect with the interviewer.
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