You’ve sent the resume, and now have been scheduled for an interview. Although a strong resume and application are crucial in impressing an employer, the final frontier standing between you and an offer is the job interview.
Other aspects of your job application may show your skillset and experience, but the interview is used to determine how well you fit the company itself. An impressive interview can be the differentiating factor in a competitive pool of applicants. Therefore, entering a job interview adequately prepared is essential to present yourself as a strong candidate.
Step 1: Research the Company
When interviewing, your goal is not just to show the interviewer that you’re a capable individual, but also that you’re an especially suitable fit for their company. Before entering any interview, make sure to have a solid understanding of the company itself– its values, expectations, and services. The easiest way to familiarize yourself with your employer is to delve into their company website. Other channels to look into are the company’s social media pages. Knowledge of the company’s history and its culture will give you a well-rounded idea of the business.
Naturally, read the job description thoroughly. Look into the position you are applying for, and take note of how your own credentials and skillset align with their expectations. Possessing great knowledge of the company you are hoping to join not only shows your dedication, but also allows you to use specific examples and questions to appeal to the interviewer.
Step 2: Sell Yourself
Since the interviewer has looked through your resume and job application, it’s likely that they already have a grasp of your general abilities and accomplishments. Therefore, you must expand past that basic information to impress the employer. Before the interview, consider which of your traits and experiences are most relevant to the position in question. Emphasize those strengths, using detailed anecdotes and examples of prior achievements to prove yourself to be a valuable asset to the company.
Additionally, the interview is what brings a candidate to life, elevating them from just a list of statistics on a page. It’s important to come across as confident and capable to give the interviewer faith in you and your ability to excel.
Step 3: Excel No Matter the Format
The pandemic fundamentally changed many companies’ recruitment processes, leading to an increase in video and telephone interviews. Therefore, it is essential that you feel self-assured and comfortable regardless of the format in which you will be interviewed. When being interviewed in person, be aware of several factors. Considerations such as showing up early, dressing appropriately, speaking politely, making eye contact, and being mindful of your body language go a long way in making a good impression.
It can be easy to overlook these steps when being interviewed virtually or over the phone, but showing professionalism and poise is just as important through a screen as it is in the flesh.
When being interviewed through video call, make sure to dress in office attire, even if you are sitting in the comfort of your own home. Eliminate distractions from your background, sit in an isolated space with strong connection, and ensure that you are well lit so that the interview runs smoothly. Even though maintaining eye-contact may feel less natural in this scenario, do your best to create a connection.
You may not have to worry about all these elements when being interviewed over the phone, but it’s now doubly important to speak with a clear, confident voice. Even though the interviewer cannot see you, sitting straight, smiling, and generally conducting yourself confidently is still beneficial in making you sound more engaging.
Step 4: Rehearse!
With so many things to keep in mind, the best way to prepare yourself for an interview is to practice! You can speak to yourself in front of a mirror, review common interview questions, and even do mock interviews with friends, family, or an interview coach to alleviate your anxiety and feel ready for your big moment.
Do Well in an Interview, Land that Job
A strong resume and application gets you through the door. But a successful job interview could help you land the job of your dreams. And adequate preparation is at the heart of nailing a job interview. So learn what you can about the company. Match your skills to the job description and sell yourself. Get comfortable in any platform, via phone or virtual. Invest your time, effort, and energy, and you will be sure to impress.
Be sure to check our Facebook and LinkedIn to stay up to date on upcoming opportunities. We are constantly updating our pages with new openings and hold weekly virtual job fairs, giving you the chance to find your next big break!
Interested? Email us at info@johnclements.com to learn more! Be sure to mention the position you’re applying for in the subject line!
