25 Valuable Tips For Job Interviewing
The Application
Estimated reading time ~ 3 min
25 Valuable Tips For Job Interviewing
By: Cristiana Salazar
Preparing for a job interview can be nerve-wracking, but there are many things you can do to increase your chances of success. Here are 25 tips to help you pass your interview:
Draft a good resume and cover letter
Drafting a solid resume and cover letter can be challenging. Check out these tips to write the best resume and cover letter possible.
Research the company
Learn everything you can about the company, including its mission, values, and recent news. It is important to apply for jobs in companies that have missions and values that align with yours. It is also important to know everything you can about the company so that when the interview comes, you are prepared to answer and ask questions.
Review common interview questions
Prepare answers to common interview questions. Check out this list of common interview questions and what a good response looks like.
Be prepared for behavioral and unusual questions
Be prepared to answer behavioral questions that ask you to describe how you handled a specific situation in the past. Some interviewers also like to ask funny or unusual questions so be prepared to have to come up with answers you might have not prepared.
Be prepared to talk about your weaknesses
Be prepared to discuss your weaknesses and how you're working to improve them.
Prepare questions to ask
Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer about the company and the job. A common mistake interviewees make is that they do not ask questions. An interview should be more like a conversation because you have to figure out if this job fits your qualifications, values, and desires. Here are some questions you can ask in your interview.
Identify your selling points
Think about what makes you a strong candidate for the job and be prepared to highlight those qualities. You are unique so sell that!
Practice
Practice answering interview questions with a friend or family member, or record yourself and review your answers. After all, practice makes perfect.
Dress appropriately
Dress professionally and make sure your outfit is clean and wrinkle-free. Check out this article for more information.
Check the address before the interview and arrive early
Most likely you have never been to the office where you will be interviewed. Check possible routes, consider traffic, weather, and anything that can affect your getting on time. If you are driving check for nearby parking spots and if you are taking public transportation check how long it will take you to get there. Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early to allow time for unexpected delays.
Make a great first impression
The interview starts as soon as you enter the building. Greet the person at the front desk and say good morning and afternoon when you arrive. Once you meet the interviewer greet them politely as well.
Bring copies of your resume and cover letter
Bring several copies of your resume and cover letter to the interview in case the interviewer needs one. Most of the time they print one ahead of the interview but having a few extra copies can show the interviewer you are organized and prepared.
Be confident
Believe in yourself and your abilities, and don't be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the job.
Listen carefully
Listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and make sure you understand what they're asking.
Be concise
Keep your answers concise and to the point.
Be honest
Be honest about your experience and qualifications, and don't exaggerate or lie.
Show your personality
Let your personality shine through and show the interviewer who you are as a person.
Use positive body language
This can include maintaining eye contact and sitting up straight. Learn more about positive body language.
Be prepared to talk about salary
Be prepared to discuss your salary expectations if the interviewer brings it up. Here are 5 ways you can talk about your salary in your interview.
Follow up after the interview
You did it! The interview is over. Be sure to send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer after the interview to show your appreciation and ask for the expected next steps.
Stay calm
Applying for jobs is networking. Take deep breaths and try to stay calm. The right job will come when the time is right.
Be flexible
If you haven’t heard back from the interviewer, continue applying for other jobs.
Prepare for follow-up interviews
Be prepared for follow-up interviews and come with more follow-up questions.
Ask for feedback
Ask the interviewer for feedback on your interview performance and what you could improve on. This can be helpful even if you don’t land the job.
Stay positive
Even if you don't get the job, stay positive and use the experience as a learning opportunity for future interviews.
Preparing for a job interview takes time and effort, but by following these 25 tips, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to research the company, practice your answers to common interview questions, and be confident and honest during the interview. Good luck!