Pretty Little Secrets Series: 9 Ways to Conquer Your Next Interview Like a Boss
Interviews are probably the most nerve-wracking part of the job and internship application process. It can be scary not knowing what types of questions to prepare for, how the day of interviewing will be setting up or which curveballs might be thrown your way throughout. If you follow the tips listed below, most of this stress can be alleviated to give you a clearer, more prepared mind for your next interview. Also, they will help you to stand out from your competitors.
Dressing to impress is one thing, but the initial greeting is just as important if not more important! Always make sure to look each person directly in the eye with a smile while giving a firm handshake. Never give what people in the business world refer to as a “dead fish handshake.” This means that your hand is as floppy as a fish that was just caught and placed onto a dock. If you have an extremely firm handshake, you’ll seem more self-assured. Make sure not to totally crush their hand in the process, though.
Always have at least two copies of your resume on hand. Most companies will already have them printed and ready for the interview, but it does not hurt to bring backups.
Before the interview itself, make sure to have some prepared answers ahead of time to basic interview questions. Some of the most popular ones include listing out your strengths and weaknesses, explaining a time where you had to deal with a challenge and how you overcame it, listing examples of strong leadership in your past and more. To see examples of more questions as well as great responses to be paired with them, click here.
Make sure to get business cards from people if possible, or at least their contact information. It is a wonderful way to show your interest if you follow up after the interview to write a proper thank you note. This follow up can make or break a candidate to show how determined you are to get the position. To see great examples of how to format these emails, click here.
During the actual interview process, make sure to breathe and pace yourself. Too many people who get nervous tend to ramble and speak too quickly, losing track of their thoughts as well as their words. This is not a race. Make sure to think about your answer before actually saying it. A ten second pause is better than a rant that does not make sense. Also, don’t be afraid to say you need a few seconds to ponder your response to the question. It is not the end of the world!
Do your research on the company! Make sure you can list out examples of why the company would be a great fit for you through listing how their motto may resonate with you or how you would love to partake in future projects that may be discussed online. Knowing how you can contribute to the company in a way no one else can is key.
Stay hydrated! Interviews can take a while, and you want to make sure that your body can keep up with it. Water is definitely the priority over coffee on these days.
Be prepared to have plot twists happen throughout the day. Maybe you assumed you would only interview with two people and they throw eight your way. Just take each one a single step at a time and believe that you can do it.
During the portion that the interviewer allows for you to ask them questions, be honest on what you really want to know. A great thing to inquire about is how they have liked working for the company and why. You want the truth on if this place is the right environment for you. It is not just a day to sell yourself. This interview goes both ways.
I hope these tips help you to feel more prepared for you next interview. With these tools in your back pocket, you will definitely stand out against your competitors. Good luck and conquer that interview like a boss! Catch you on the next installment of Pretty Little Secrets!