For some, the word ‘interview’ conjures up excitement; for others, it elicits anxiety. It is the opportunity to market one’s talents, experience, and personality to an employer who is trying to convince himself that the candidate is the right one for the job. Although interviewing is an art, showing up is simply not enough. It requires preparation, practice, and planning. This blog will provide you with tips and techniques to sail through your next interview and land that dream job.
- Preparation Has Its Value: A longtime saying goes, “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” At the heart of any successfully conducted interview lies serious homework. Get an understanding of the organization’s culture and values and its newest accomplishments.
- The Interview Structure: Different types of interviews exist. From phone screenings to video interviews or panel interviews, each type has its own unique set of characteristics. Prior knowledge of the interview structure would serve as good preparation. For video interviews, have a strong Internet connection and a professional background. Panel interviews are a great time to practice with multiple interviewers at once.
- Your Story: Your resume shines a light on your experiences, but it is the interview that gives you the stage to bring them to life. Carefully prepare your best stories to show off your skills and accomplishments. Use the Situation, Task, Action, and Result format for most of the answers, using concrete examples. To become more comfortable in their delivery, work through the telling of the stories aloud. Resumes can only glow when displaying how much experience the candidate does or does not have; it is the interview that truly gives the candidate a platform to illustrate this. Before the interview, prepare good stories that will not bore but will highlight your skills and accomplishments. Give answers in STAR format (situation, task, action, result) by providing specific examples. Preparing these stories will create confidence and comfort in themselves.
- Prepare answers for predictable questions: A candidate might also expect a couple of common interviews. Among the common situations are: “Tell me about yourself.” “What interests you about the position?” and What are your strengths and weaknesses?”. Prepare answers to those questions yourself, ensuring that each response checks off, if not bolsters, your skills and experiences for the role and, thus, shows interest in the position and the company.
- Prepare relevant questions to ask: Asking pertinent questions demonstrates your interest in and engagement with the company and the position. Having the reports gives you insight into the company dynamics and the position in question. Have this list prepared before the interview, but also be flexible with asking follow-up questions based on the discussion you are having. Questions related to salary and the benefits package would preferably be asked later in the hiring process.
- Practice, practice, practice: It’s all about practice. Get familiar with all common questions asked during interviews and refine your storytelling craft using the STAR method. Whenever possible, do mock interviews with friends, family, or a career counselor. This will be of immense help in gaining the utmost confidence about the time of the interview.
- Great First Impressions: The first impression counts. Please dress in formal attire for the interview. Arrive on time (a couple of minutes early if it is virtual) and remember to maintain good eye contact throughout the interview. Being courteous and respectful to all parties involved: the receptionist and the hiring manager alike. Take an upbeat attitude and give your most sincere smile.
- Good Body Language: Be aware of your body language. Stand straight; make eye contact; give a firm handshake when appropriate. Fidgeting and distracting movements are to be avoided. Use your body language to express confidence and enthusiasm.
- Active Listening: Always successful in an interview; active listening requires your conscious effort. Focus on what the interviewer is saying and answer thoughtfully. Avoid interrupting or jumping to conclusions. One always benefits by pausing and reflecting on his response.
- Follow-Up: Within 24 hours of your interview, write and send a thank-you note to the interviewer. Thank him or her once again for his time, and reiterate your interest in the position. That will score great points for your professionalism.
This is an art that a candidate has to master. Stay prepared, be confident, and be true to yourself; I wish you all the best!
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Writer
Mahfuza Amir Ela
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE