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| JFCS Career Services, Uncategorized
Nail the interview

7 Tips To Help You Nail Your Next Job Interview

Congratulations!   XYZ company has just called to let you know that you have been selected to interview for the job of your dreams.  Now what?

While you may think that getting the interview is the hardest part of the job search process, the truth is your work has just begun.  Whether you have been actively interviewing for jobs for the last six months, or this is your first interview in over 20 years, if you want to nail it, you need to make sure you are prepared.  Like most things in life, the more time and effort you put into the interview, the more likely you are going to have success in getting the offer.

If you really want to put your best foot forward and impress the interviewers, you need to take the process seriously and prepare in advance.  Below are some steps that you can take to help you ace this interview and any other interviews you may have down the road:

 

  • Do your homework

 

Research the company and research your interviewers – if you ask, most organizations will provide you with the names of your interviewers in advance.  While the employer’s website is great place to start to learn about the mission, values, organizational structure and latest company news, you should also check out other resources to learn as much as you can about the employer and your interviewers.  LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites can give you a good idea of how the company presents itself to the public Google and Google News as well as business publications and industry trade journals can help you learn more your company’s activities and position in the marketplace.  Talking to people who have had experience with the employer is also a great way to make yourself more familiar with the company’s culture and operations.

 

  • Practice, practice, practice   

 

Being nervous or even terrified about an upcoming interview is completely normal.  The best way to calm yourself and get over the interview jitters is to practice as much as you can. Prepare and practice answers to common interview questions.  Your career counselor can explain different types of interviews and help you formulate answers to questions you are likely to be asked. You can also schedule a mock interview with a counselor or even ask a trusted friend or relative to practice with you one-on-one.  The JFCS Career Development Center also offers workshops on “Interviewing Strategies” and “Successful Interviewing Techniques” where you can practice your interviewing skills and gain feedback. Remember, to be a successful at the interview, you need to know yourself. Spend some time reflecting on your past experiences and generate a list of your skills, talents and accomplishments as they relate to the position you are interviewing for.

 

  • Make sure you have questions for your interviewer(s)

 

Nothing sends a bad  signal to an employer faster than the interviewee who is not able to keep the conversation going.  Job interviewing is two way street. On the one hand the interviewer is asking questions to find the person with the  right skills, attitude and experience for the job. On the other hand, as the interviewee, you should be using the job interview to make sure that the position  is the right fit for you. When an interviewer asks, ”Do you have any questions?” you need to ask thoughtful questions that show you are truly interested in the position and are taking the interviewing process seriously.

 

  • Know how to answer “Tell me about yourself”

 

“So, tell me about yourself” is often one of the first questions to be asked in an interview.  This question can really make a you sweat – you wonder how much you should share and how long you should talk.  Don’t make the mistake of going on for 20 minutes repeating everything in your resume. The best way to respond to  this type of question is with with a concise summary of who you are and why you are the right fit for the job. Focus on the specific qualifications in the job description and show how your background, skills and interests  match the job requirements. Don’t try to cover every job you have ever had – you will have plenty of time to go into more detail and fill in any gaps as the interview progresses.

 

  • Dress appropriately

 

You only have one chance to make a good first impression. An interviewer will form an opinion of you in the first 30 seconds from the way you are dressed and how you carry yourself. No matter where you are interviewing it is important to dress professionally.  In general, a dark-colored suit or tailored dress is appropriate for an interview. If you know that the work environment is very casual, you can wear a neatly pressed button down shirt or cardigan with dress pants or a tailored skirt. Remember, it never hurts to be overdressed so when in doubt go with formal interview attire.   

 

  • Bring the Right Materials

 

Before you head out to the interview make sure that you have the materials you need in your briefcase or handbag.  You should bring a notebook to take notes, extra resumes, a copy of the job description, an updated list of references, pen and pencils that work and any information you might need to complete a  job application.

 

  • Plan for the Unexpected

 

Nothing gives a worse impression than showing up late to an interview. Take some time to get everything in order and make sure you know where you are going. If necessary, do a trial run so that you how much time it will take to get to the interview site.   If you are driving be sure that your gas tank is filled the night before, and that you know where you can park and how difficult it may be to find a space. Plan to arrive at the location at least 20 minutes early – you can always sit in your car and wait or hang out in a local coffee shop.  Remember, you can never predict how traffic will be or if your bus may be running late, so give yourself plenty of time to deal with the unexpected.

Interviews can be stressful, but if you take the time to prepare in advance you can nail it.  The career counselors at JFCS Career Development Center can help you develop the interviewing strategies you need to ace your next interview.  Call us today at 412-422-7200 to learn more about how we we can help you position yourself for interviewing and career success.