Congratulations, your job application stood out and you have been invited for an interview. You are that much closer to securing a new position. Before you go to the interview you will need to do some homework, which will demonstrate to the employer why you are the best candidate to fill the role they are hiring for.
To help you prepare for the interview, here are tips and advice to make sure you are ready for the big day.
Conduct Research
A little bit of research goes a long way! Learn as much as you can about the company, the job and the interview itself.
Spend a couple of hours searching online and talking with people in your network about the company. Look more in-depth than what is on their website or social media, by reading current news releases, reviews or what others are saying.
Review the job description and make note of what skills and experiences are highlighted, so you can emphasize those areas and how you can solve problems.
If feasible, purchase the product and try it out prior to your interview. This allows you to experience the product first-hand, so you can speak knowledgably about it during the interview. This will help show the hiring manager you are interested in both the role and the product.
If you are able to find out what type of interview it will be, this information can help you prepare accordingly. If you are able to learn any information about the interviewer(s) those details can come in handy too.
Refresh Your Interview Skills
The next step of interview preparation is to brush up on your interview skills, put together answers to common interview questions and practice.
Identify your selling points. Think carefully about what skills, accomplishments and interview answers will resonate the most.
Know why you are interested in this position at this company. Select a few key factors about the job and company that align with your strengths, interests and/or work environment that excite you about this role.
It can be difficult to predict what questions will be asked, but there are some common questions you can expect. Plan your responses to the following questions, as this will provide you with a confidence boost.
- Why do you want to work here?
- What interested you about this role?
- What are your strengths?
Prepare your stories. You will likely be asked several behavioural questions about how you acted in a particular situation. Having some stories that demonstrate specific experiences that can be adapted, based on the question will be useful.
Conduct a mock interview (or two) with a family member or close friend. Familiarize yourself with common interview questions and practice your answers. Be cautious of memorizing an entire answer and sounding like you are reading from a script. Mock interviews also make you aware of your body language and tone of voice, while helping you to remain calm, comfortable and confident.
Write down questions you will ask the interviewer. Prepare some questions specific to the company and the position. Some examples include the following:
- What qualities do your most successful employees have?
- What are the steps in the hiring process?
- What type of in-house training programs do you offer?
- Why did you join the company and why do you like working here?
- How does this position impact the rest of the company?
- How have other people in this same position grown?
Don’t Forget These Details
The final stage of interview preparation is to ensure you walk into the room looking and feeling professional. This final step also includes ensuring all of the logistics have been taken care of. Below is a list of things to consider and have ready:
- What to wear that is appropriate and professional
- Review your resume and print copies
- Prepare a reference list
- Test any necessary technical equipment
- Pack ahead of time
- Figure out where you’re going, the route you are taking and parking details (if applicable)
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Calm your nerves and/or get psyched
Final Pointers
DO
- Make eye contact
- Say thank you and end on a positive note
- Follow up after the interview
DON’T
- Be late
- Volunteer your weaknesses
- Criticize your current/previous employer
If you have any questions about how to prepare for a job interview or would like to discuss using our recruitment services, please feel free to reach out.