Now that you have received a call to interview for your dream job, make sure to make the most of this opportunity. A job seeker undergoes multiple phases during the hiring process. The interview is the most crucial phase as you interact with the company speaking to people who are responsible for the hiring decision. Even the smartest and most qualified individuals can find the interview process overwhelming. Here are a few tips to successfully get through this process.
Research
When selected for an interview, do thorough research about the company. Learn about its mission, vision, culture, values, and history. The company’s website, social media, news articles, and review websites like Glassdoor, Salary.com, etc. offer invaluable insights.
Also, researching the interviewer or people on the interviewing panel on LinkedIn or other social media channels could aid you in understanding their mindset. Additionally, common links like college attended, hobbies, and other interests can help in establishing instant rapport and even start to build a relationship with them.
Knowing the company and the people interviewing you goes a long way to show how prepared you are and how much you want the job.
Prepare & Practice
Make a list of commonly asked interview questions. Frame answers to these questions based on your experience and qualifications and the company’s requirements. These questions are generally asked at the beginning, which gives you an opportunity to make a good first impression.
Secondly, practice answering more job-focused questions with someone to make them conversational. Make sure to keep your answers focused and concise. Consider the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Risk) method to exemplify your skills. Through this method, you can illustrate how you possess a particular skill that is required for the role.
- Identify a situation or task where you demonstrated that skill.
- Describe the actions you took to resolve the matter.
- Discuss the results of your actions.
Other strategies include consulting with a mentor or someone who has been in a hiring position before. Utilizing your professional network to connect with someone inside the company to get more insights about the company and the people you are interviewing with.
Be On-Time
As the saying goes, “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.” Reach the venue at least 15 minutes before the interview. Acquaint yourself with the surroundings and make observations. This extra time helps you to adjust to the environment and can even calm down any anxiety before the interview.
Professional Conduct
Keep your conduct as professional as possible when you interact with anyone from the company. Right from what you wear to how you communicate, always be professional. Even if the company culture seems casual, do not presume it to be so when you go for an interview. During the interview, make sure to listen before you respond. Listening is crucial to understanding, which is necessary to respond effectively. However, in case of any confusion, do not hesitate to ask a follow-up question to get a better understanding before answering.
You should aim to come across as confident yet coachable. You definitely don’t want to come across as arrogant or a know-it-all. Always be yourself. Employers are looking for a skill set, experience, and also someone who will fit well into the culture of the company and internalize its values.
Ask Your Questions
In the end, you might get an opportunity to ask any questions you have. Prepare a few insightful questions regarding the company, the expectations they have for the role, growth prospects, benefits, and compensation. Check out this link to frame the most appropriate questions.
Post Interview
As a common courtesy, thank your interviewer for their time and send a thank you email shortly after the interview. It may not get you a job offer but will certainly give you an edge by demonstrating your character and professionalism.
Succeeding in job interviews takes research, practice, and persistence. The more effort you put into your interview preparation; the more success you will obtain in securing job offers. To find more information visit Defynance ROEP.
