Interview Prep in Seven Steps

John Krautzel
Posted by in Career Advice


When it comes to interviewing, preparation is key. The more time you spend preparing for a job interview, the more likely you are to impress the interviewer with your answers. If you are nervous about an upcoming interview, follow these tips for interview preparation.

1. Research the Company

Before you attend a job interview, you need to know as much as possible about the company. Visit the company website to find out about the products or services offered by the organization. Then do an Internet search to see if you can find any information about the company's history and culture.

2. Develop a Plan

After reviewing the job description several times, develop a plan that shows the hiring manager you are a valuable candidate. The document should include a list of tasks you plan to complete if the interviewer selects you for the job. It's important not to get too detailed at this stage, as you probably don't have all the information you need about the role and how it fits in with the rest of the organization's structure.

3. Create a Portfolio

The job interview is a good time to show off your achievements, so take time to create a portfolio showcasing your professional development. Include professional awards, certifications and any other documents that demonstrate your commitment to developing your career.

4. Practice Answering Questions

You need to come across as poised and professional during your job interview, so take time to practice your answers ahead of time. You don't want to sound like a robot, but you should be able to deliver answers in a way that makes you appear poised and professional. If you don't have a friend available to help you, work your way through a book of interview questions in the days leading up to your interview.

5. Develop Questions of Your Own

Participating in a job interview isn't just about proving your worth as a candidate. It's also about sizing up the company and determining if you really want to work there. If you don't ask questions, it's difficult to determine if the company is a good fit for your personality and career-development goals. Before you attend a job interview, be sure to come up with several questions to ask the hiring manager.

6. Impress the Interviewer

On the day of your job interview, give yourself extra time in case you hit traffic or have trouble finding the building. Impress the interviewer by wearing professional attire and arriving 10 to 15 minutes early for your job interview.

7. Follow Up

After doing so much interview preparation, it's important to follow up with hiring managers. Send a thank-you note immediately after the interview to express your appreciation to everyone involved with the process. Follow up in a week or two to see if there is anything else the hiring manager needs from you.

Acing an interview is all about showing the hiring manager you are an ideal candidate for the job. Demonstrate your value by following these tips before your next job interview.


Photo courtesy of maxjiip info private limited at Flickr.com

 

 

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