Preparing for an Interview

So, you have prepared your resume, applied for a job, and now you have been invited to an interview.   The interview is your first chance to really show your prospective employer what you have to offer.  This is your chance.  The question is, how do you prepare yourself before the interview to ensure that you put your best foot forward?

• Dress for Success — Arriving at the interview professionally dressed shows the interview board that you understand the importance of being at an interview, and that you want to make a good first impression.  It shows them that you have taken the time to ensure that the little things have been addressed.  Paying attention to detail in your attire means that you will probably pay attention to detail at work.

• Research the Company – It is important that you learn as much as you can about the company or business that has invited you to interview.  The more you learn about what they offer, the more you demonstrate an interest in their business.

• Network – Make contacts with people in related fields or in your community, i.e, Chamber of Commerce, relevant business leaders, local council members, etc.  Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance from people who have recent experience, i.e friends who have just gone through an interview.  Seek out professionals who can provide guidance and feedback, i.e. teachers, guidance councilors, career coaching experts, etc.

• Prepare to Talk About YOU – Take time before the interview to think about your strengths and weaknesses, and, if they ask, don’t be afraid to talk about them.  You are in the interview for one reason.  To sell yourself.  Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.  You must be able to highlight yours, and talk about them.  Highlight the strengths that you feel can be an asset to the company.  Think about ways to turn your weakness into a positive attribute, i.e. if you say your weakness is that you are too rigid, and perhaps work on things longer than needed, you can add that this also means you have perseverance. You can also use an online reputation management service to improve your online presence since they will surely check on that before your interview.

• Prepare Questions for the Board –   Once the formal portion of the interview is complete, the Board will often ask if you have any questions.   Have questions ready to ask, showing that you are very interested in learning as much as you can.

• Practice Speaking in the Mirror – Take time to practice speaking in the mirror, ensuring that you are speaking clearly and concisely.  The Board expects you to be nervous, however, you want to remain focused, calm and relaxed, without letting yourself become too casual.  Remember, remain professional at all times. 

Showing the hiring board that you have taken the time to thoroughly prepare yourself will go a long way to demonstrating that you take this interview process very seriously, and sincerely want to be considered for the job.  You have to make sure that, once the interview is over, and you have left the room, you are the candidate that the Board will remember.