How to Nail Every Job Interview: A 7-Step Guide
Interviewing can be stressful, especially if you’re nervous about whether or not you’ll get the job. However, by following this 7-step guide on how to nail every job interview, you’ll be able to feel confident and calm at your next interview. With step-by-step instructions and actionable advice to help ensure your success, this guide will help make your next interview a breeze!
Step 1 – Prepare
It all starts with preparation. If you’re not coming in confident and prepared, you’re doing yourself a disservice. As soon as you walk in the door, you need to make a good impression. Check out our
Step 2 – Practice
Doing your homework before the interview is crucial. The best way to make sure you’re prepared for anything your interviewer might ask is by going through each question and coming up with an answer ahead of time. Preparing examples and anecdotes is also a great way to show that you’re passionate about the position, so do some research on their company beforehand and bring notes (print off this checklist so you don’t forget anything). Practice with a friend or family member, if possible. They’ll be able to help you hone your answers and tell you if there’s something that doesn’t sound quite right. If not, invest in a video chat app like Skype where someone can look over your shoulder as you practice.
Step 3 – Do Your Research
1. Research the company’s website and read up on the latest news, looking for any insights that could help you during your interview.
2. Read through the job description thoroughly, then make a list of all the qualifications they ask for, highlighting which ones you currently possess. This will help you organize your thoughts in an interview and show your expertise without even mentioning it! For instance, if they’re asking for five years of experience in customer service but you only have two, talk about how much experience you have and mention that you plan on getting more with this company specifically (gaining four more years of experience than what is listed).
3. Get online reviews from other people who’ve had interviews with them or work there.
Step 4 – What’s your WHY?
Before the interview, we recommend you determine your motivation for wanting the job and for being in a work environment. Are you looking for more creativity? More leadership opportunities? An opportunity to develop new skills? Consider what type of company environment is best suited for your preferences and what would make you feel fulfilled professionally. If a position requires skills that don’t come easily to you, know that skills can be developed and it’s much easier if you like where you work.
Step 5 – Dress the Part
Dressing the part is also important! So make sure your wardrobe and attire are up to par. Plus, don’t forget your shoes. Remember that before you head out in the morning, you should have all of these things figured out. After all, getting a job is a big deal and shouldn’t be taken lightly. You’ll likely wear it every day, so make sure you love what you’re wearing!
Step 6 – Ditch the Thank You Notes
If you don’t know what a thank you note is, think of it as a handwritten thank you card. It’s your chance to give an employer a good impression of yourself even after the interview.
Step 7 – Offer Solutions Not Fears
Address the candidate’s concerns head-on. This can often be accomplished by asking the right questions before the interview. For example, What are your thoughts and feedback so far? or Are there any specific things you’re concerned about? If a specific concern is brought up in the course of the interview, provide solutions as opposed to just giving reasons for why it’s not a problem.
