It’s exciting to make it past the resumé/CV and job application phase. Being invited to a job interview can feel exciting. It can also feel nerve-wracking. That is why we have provided some expert job interview tips below to help you nail your next interview.
Now that you’ve made it past the initial phase, it’s time to make the first impression needed to take the next step.
At this point, you can also shift your perspective. At the beginning of the job application phase, you are just the words on your resumé/CV and cover letter. Being invited to an interview is an opportunity for a potential employer to actually get to know you, your personality, and how your experience relates to their business and requirements. It is an opportunity to showcase your skills and experience and sell your skillset. A job interview is a great opportunity to talk about yourself, your skillset, your ideas and career ambitions and make sure that they align with the business you are interviewing with.
Job interview tips to make a lasting impression on the interviewer
Spending time researching and preparing for the interview is essential to get over your nerves and make a good impression with well-crafted answers.
1. Research the company
The start of your interview preparation should be company research! Look at company values, their LinkedIn page, and the About page on their website. This research will help you connect your answers to the company values and mission.
2. Review your skills against the role
Show you have the skills the company is looking for in that role. It’s easy to tell the interviewer that you are “deadline-oriented” or a “team player”, but make sure it is supported with a relevant scenario that demonstrates those skills.
- What is the company looking for?
- How does your experience line up with the job listing?
- What relevant results have you gotten before? Prepare numbers or percentages that demonstrate your accomplishments.
- Think about specific experiences that show you have certain qualities or skills.
3. Prepare answers
Prepare an answer for “tell me about yourself.” This open-ended question interviewers ask gives them insight into who you are behind your resumé/CV, cover letter, and job conversation. It’s a way for interviewers to start the conversation and get to know and understand you. Here are some ideas:
- Give a brief overview of your education, most recent jobs, and insight into short and long-term career goals.
- Tell a professional story – what inspired you to pursue the field? Why are you passionate about your work?
- Show your personality and interests (and make them relevant to the company).
4. Practice for the interview beforehand
Be sure to start by practising and preparing answers for the questions you may be asked during the interview.
- Think about why you’re interested in that specific role and company.
- Prepare to talk about the connection between your past experience and the current position you’re applying for.
- Practice body language and making eye contact.
- Consider recording a mock interview and reviewing your answers and body language.
- Consider what you will wear to the interview to showcase your brand.
5. Prepare questions to ask at the end of the interview
At the end of the job interview, your interviewer will probably ask if you have any questions. This is your opportunity to learn about the company, as well as show your interest.
- What does a typical day look like?
- How is performance measured and reviewed?
- Why did you choose to work with this company?
- What professional development opportunities are available to new employees?
- What are the goals for the first six months of this position?
By allowing appropriate preparation time you will walk into the interview calm, confident, and engaged. Being engaged and confident will help you build a relationship with the interviewer and make a lasting impression.
During your interview, make sure to engage with the interviewer and try not to just answer their questions. Try and have a conversation with the interviewer as well.
Preparing for your job interview might feel like a lot is on the line. Look at this as an opportunity to build a relationship with the interviewer and show how you would fit in with the company culture and sell your skillset!
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If you wish to continue reading Forbes has some additional surprising job interview tips to consider for your next interview that you may wish to consider.