Preparing for a job interview is no easy task! If you have an upcoming interview, you will want to make sure that you do all that you can so that you are ready for what’s ahead. To make the best first impression follow some of these strategies and tips from our expert Stratizen recruiters so that you go into your interview feeling organized, calm, and ready to roll!
Tips from Drew:
- Whether your interview is online or in person, make sure that you dress to impress. Professional attire is one of the first things that your interviewer will see, so you want to make sure you start off on the right foot.
- If your interview is online, plan ahead of time to make sure you have a quiet, secluded place that has good internet connectivity. It’s also smart to do a test run with all of your equipment to ensure that nothing happens at the time of your interview.
- If your interview is in person, arrive 15-20 minutes early and plan for traffic/directional issues.
- It’s always a good idea to study up on the manager and the company in preparation for the interview. Having a good idea of the person you will be interviewing with and the history of the company allows you to be prepared to engage in specific conversations about the company. It also shows that you are serious about the position and have taken the time to prepare for the meeting.
Tips from Jake:
- Make sure you know and understand the job description inside and out. If you don’t understand a particular part of the description, do you research on that topic prior to the interview. If the topic comes up during the interview, be honest about your lack of knowledge. Honesty is always the way to go in any interview. Explain that you did do some research on the topic and express your willingness to learn. Tell them how you can see yourself growing in that area with experience you’ve had in the past.
Tips from Michael:
- If your interview is on site, make sure you scope it out beforehand. This will calm your nerves the day of and ensure that there is adequate parking and you are familiar with the area and know where to go.
- Practice your elevator pitch prior to the interview and know your objectives.
- Always bring extra copies of your resume for yourself and the hiring manager/s.
Tips from Kamryn:
- Make sure that for an online interview your face is clearly seen and there aren’t any distracting backgrounds or noises.
- Write down any questions that you know you have going into the interview beforehand to make sure that you don’t forget them. If you think of any of them during the interview, write (don’t type) them down quickly.
- Be conscious of your body language. Don’t move around too much and maintain reasonable eye contact.
- Silence your phone and give the interviewer your undivided attention.
- If you are asked a question, answer it with a brief example.
- Go through a mock interview, either with your recruiter or with a friend or family member. This will help to calm your nerves and make you feel completely prepared.
- Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through- especially in virtual interviews. Do your best to make a real and personal connection with your interviewer.
These are just a few of the strategies and tips from Stratice Recruiters. Do you need help preparing for your next interview? These recruiters and others are ready to help you feel comfortable and confident about your next opportunity. Give us a call today!
