So, You've got an Interview? Part I

So, you just got a call from a potential employer saying that they would like to set up a time for an interview.  You’re excited at first, but then, panic comes in.  How do I stand out from other applicants?  Do I exude total confidence or do I remain humble?  How should I anticipate the questions that are going to be asked?  Job interviews can be intimidating and yes, even a little scary.  I am here today to give you some tips on how to prepare for your job interview (these tips can also apply for school interviews).

1.  Analyze the Job Description.  Think about the job that you are applying for.  Have you had experience in this area or do you have the proper skills needed to get the job done?  If the answer to both of these questions is “no” then think about other experiences you have had.  Have you had an internship where you have had to use similar skills or have had similar experiences?  If not, are you willing to fully learn the skills needed to succeed in the position?  Write a cover letter detailing why you want the job and the skills you have that make you qualified.

2.  Research the Company.  One of the most asked questions in an interview is, “what do you know about our company?”  It is important to look into the company as thoroughly as you can in order to be able to effectively answer this question.  This also gives you the opportunity to look into the company’s mission and values.  Do they correlate with your own?  If not, is it something that you can look past?  If not, maybe it isn’t the right job for you.  If it is, think about how you can incorporate this information into your interview.

3.  Questions, Questions, Questions.  It is very vital to think about the questions that will come up at the interview.  Look up the most common questions asked (one of them I’ve already mentioned).  Most of these are of the variety of talking about yourself.  Also, think about the questions you want to ask them.  Most employers expect you to ask questions (it will actually make you seem uninterested in the job if you don’t ask questions).  Find out if they have a dress code, what your starting pay would be, and other such questions.  Asking questions like these will give you more information on the position and make you seem interested in the job.

4.  Physically and Mentally Preparing.  This can involve your interview outfit and what you want to bring with you to the interview.  As far as your outfit, think about where you’re interviewing.  If you are interviewing for a position in a bank or a fancy office, a suit is your best office.  If the place seems more casual, maybe a suit will be too dressy.  Go for a business casual look; it is better to be more dressy than casual, but not to the point where you’re too flashy.  Think about the materials you want to bring with you.  This could include your résumé, a collection of some work that you have done, or other materials.  Think of some ways to relax before the interview.  Take some deep breaths, listen to soothing music or music that will pump you up, or even do yoga. 

I hope these tips have helped you to prepare for an upcoming interview.  Let me know if you have any tips to add to the list or if these helped you!