First impression is the last impression. Read this article to nail the interview
Understand the Job and the Company
Start by researching the company in-depth. Know their mission, values, products, and recent achievements. Check their social media, read news articles about them, and visit their official website. This not only helps you understand their goals but also gives you material to explain why you’re a great fit.
Pay close attention to the job description. Highlight the skills and qualifications they’re looking for and think about how your experience matches. Employers appreciate candidates who take the time to understand their specific needs.
Practice Answering Common Questions
Some questions pop up in almost every interview. Here are a few examples and tips for answering them:
- Tell me about yourself.
This question sets the tone for the interview. Provide a concise overview of your background, focusing on the experiences and skills that are most relevant to the role. Avoid simply repeating your resume. - Why do you want this job?
Be specific! Maybe it’s the company’s values, growth opportunities, or the role’s alignment with your career goals. Show genuine enthusiasm. - What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Share strengths that align with the job. For weaknesses, choose something you’ve actively worked to improve and explain the steps you’ve taken to address it. - How do you handle challenges?
Share examples of past obstacles, how you approached them, and what you learned. Use the STAR method:- Situation: What was the context?
- Task: What needed to be done?
- Action: What steps did you take?
- Result: What was the outcome?
Practicing these answers out loud will make you feel more prepared and confident.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
An interview isn’t just about them assessing you—it’s your chance to evaluate them too. Ask about team culture, career growth opportunities, or specific projects you’d be working on. Questions like, “What does success look like in this role?” show that you’re thinking seriously about the position.
Polish Your Communication Skills
How you say things can matter as much as what you say. Practice speaking clearly and confidently. Maintain good eye contact, sit up straight, and use positive body language. For virtual interviews, ensure your background is tidy, your internet connection is stable, and your camera is positioned at eye level.
Dress to Impress
First impressions matter, so dress professionally. Even if the company culture is casual, a polished appearance shows you respect the opportunity. For virtual interviews, stick to business attire even if you’re sitting in your living room.
Prepare for Different Types of Interviews
Interviews come in many forms, and each requires a slightly different approach:
- Phone Interviews:
Find a quiet spot, keep your resume handy, and smile while speaking—it makes your voice sound friendlier. - Video Interviews:
Test your tech ahead of time. Dress professionally and ensure your background and lighting are appropriate. - Panel Interviews:
Address all panel members when answering questions. Research their roles to tailor some of your responses. - Technical Interviews:
Brush up on relevant skills and practice problem-solving scenarios. Be prepared to explain your thought process. - Behavioral Interviews:
Prepare examples of past experiences using the STAR method to showcase your skills and accomplishments.
Manage Pre-Interview Jitters
It’s natural to feel nervous, but preparation can help. The day before, review your notes and get a good night’s sleep. On the day of the interview, arrive early (or log in early if it’s virtual). Take deep breaths to stay calm and remind yourself that the company sees potential in you—that’s why you’re there.
Follow Up After the Interview
After the interview, send a thank-you email to your interviewer(s). Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and mention specific points discussed during the conversation. It’s a small gesture that leaves a big impact.
Final Checklist
- Research: Know the company, role, and industry trends.
- Practice: Rehearse answers to common and role-specific questions.
- Questions: Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions for the interviewer.
- Attire: Choose professional, appropriate clothing.
- Logistics: Confirm the time, location (or virtual platform), and any materials you need to bring.
- Follow-Up: Send a thank-you email post-interview.
Good luck!
