Interview Tips FAQ
Before Interview
- Review the typical job interview questions employers ask and practice your answers
- draw on concrete examples that can highlight your skills and back up your resume.
- emphasize the skills that are most important to the employer and relevant to the position.
- review the job listing, make a list of the requirements, and match them to your experience.
- Do your homework and research the employer and the industry.
(You should be able to find out a lot of information about the company’s history, mission and values, staff, culture, and recent successes on its website. If the company has a blog and a social media presence, they can be useful places to look, too.) - Plan your interview attire the night before.
- Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early.
- Give yourself a few extra minutes to visit the restroom, check your outfit, and calm your nerves.
- Go to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.
During Interview
- Communication skills.
- Speak clearly and concisely about the assets you can offer the employer.
- Project confidence, stay positive, and be able to share examples of your workplace skills and your qualifications for the job.
- try to develop a connection with your interviewer.
- Know the interviewer's name, and use it during the job interview
(If you're not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. And, listen very carefully during introductions. If you’re prone to forgetting names, jot it down somewhere discreet, like in small letters at the bottom of your notepad.)
YES.
It is important to have at least one or two questions prepared in order to demonstrate your interest in the organization.
(for example, "What do you think is the best thing about working here?" and "What kind of person would you most like to see fill this position?")
Otherwise, you might come across as apathetic, which is a major turnoff for hiring managers.
- try to relax and stay as calm as possible
- body language says as much about you as your answers
- maintain eye contact with the interviewer
- listen to the entire question (using active listening) before you answer, so you know exactly what the interviewer is asking
- If you need to take a moment to think about your answer, that’s totally fine
(Avoid “ums” or “uhs.”)
After Interview
- follow up with a thank-you note reiterating your interest in the position
- include any details you may have forgotten to mention during your interview.
- If you interview with multiple people from the same company, send each one a personal note.
- Send thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview.
General Tips
- Goal in any interview: Convince them that you're the best candidate.
- The later in the interview you talk numbers, the more time you have to demonstrate your value.
- Be honest on reason to leave the job.
But being honest doesn’t mean you have to share all the details. - Opt for a tea.
Tea has a lower caffeine content (usually), and a cuppa has even been shown to reduce stress after consumption.
- Do not ask for feedback or concerns like "Based on what we've discussed, is there any reason you wouldn't consider me for this job?"
- Talk about salary in early stage.
- Give too many details on why you are looking for your next career move.
- Drink coffee before interview