Your palms are sweaty and you’re almost positive you need a breath mint, which you can’t seem to find in your pocket or purse. You ask yourself why you spent all of that time deciding on which necklace or tie to wear and now you are wishing you had just randomly selected accessories, as it seems so trivial now.
You’ve been thinking about this interview for two days, but have you thought about the right things? Did you prepare for the right questions and conversations?
Career Realism references three key items you should keep in mind while preparing for an interview, which we will dissect and expand on in detail.
1. Analyze the company
Always make sure you do your research prior to your interview. As Career Realism suggests, research the company and understand their business and successes. You can do this simply by exploring their website, as well as running a google search on the company.
There is nothing more embarrassing than interviewing for a position that you do not understand. Be sure that you read the job description carefully and understand the requirements and responsibilities. You can even take this a step further by searching for people on LinkedIn who are working or have worked in this role with the company.
The more research you are able to do in order to ensure you to understand the company and opportunity, the better position you are in during the interview. Interviewers love it when it’s obvious that you have spent time learning about their company and position, just as they have likely spent some time beforehand researching your background via your resume, LinkedIn profile, or other forms of social media.
2. Practice
After you have completed your research on the company, make sure you have thought about the types of questions you will be asked based on your background and the position requirements.
When reviewing the position requirements, think of specific examples you could provide, if asked, that are related to the requirements.
Practice responding to anticipated questions by looking into a mirror or practicing in front of a friend, as Career Realism suggests. Make sure that you are concise in your answers and practice making eye contact.
3. Narrow down the details
As Career Realism recommends, make sure you have everything in order the night before your interview. Select your outfit and accessories and be sure to have several copies of your resume printed off and stored in your portfolio or folder.
Above all, be sure that you know where to go and what time your interview is scheduled.
It can be stressful preparing for an interview, but as long as you follow each of these 3 tips as originally proposed by Career Realism, your stress should be minimal.
What are some things that you do when preparing for an interview? Please share your tips below in the comments!
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