6 Tips To Nail Your Interview

The past few years changed the way we work. And, in turn, the way employers interview candidates — from the interview environment (your first, second and maybe even third interview will likely be a video call) to the types of questions you’re asked (are you willing to come into the office two days a week?). If you haven't been in the job market for a while, things might feel... different, to say the least.?

But don’t let that discourage you. As the future of work continues to evolve, Women’s CoLab remains dedicated to providing you with the resources and support you need to nail your next big opportunity. That said, below we’ve curated some of the best pro tips we could find about interviewing in 2022.

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PRO TIP 1: PREPARE FOR A NEW WORLD OF QUESTIONS.

While you should still be prepared to answer the standard interview questions like where you see yourself in five years, you should also be prepared with answers for a whole slew of new questions inspired by our new way of working. Expect questions about your preferred work environment, your vax status and even your stance on diversity, equity and inclusion which has become a big priority for many companies.??

Here’s a great article on navigating the interviewing process with this new way of thinking: https://www.ivyexec.com/career-advice/2022/interviewing-process-changed/?

PRO TIP 2: RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!

While it’s always been a good idea to research the company that you’re interviewing with, it's almost unthinkable not to these days. And, by “research,” we don’t mean just visiting their website. Though that’s a great place to start!?

To really get to know a company, you should Google them and dig deep into their social channels. LinkedIn is a great way to get insight into the people who work there, including the people you’re interviewing with! And platforms like TikTok and Instagram can reveal a lot about their company values, mission, and brand personality.?

Getting to know a company on this level can help you tremendously in an interview when asked questions about what drew you to apply for the position and so much more!?

Here’s a great video from LinkedIn on how to successfully research a company before your interview: https://www.dhirubhai.net/learning/expert-tips-for-answering-common-interview-questions/how-to-research-a-company-before-your-interview?autoplay=true?

PRO TIP 3: PREPARE TO TALK ABOUT YOURSELF

Sometimes an interviewer will open the conversation with a simple, “Tell me about yourself.” Seems like an easy enough thing to do, but this request can quickly get stressful in the context of an interview. Afterall, you’re a complicated person, right? Where do you start? With your cat? Your hometown? Your favorite chick flick? Unless they pertain to the position you’re applying for, the answer is usually, “No.”?

Instead, what you should start with is your current or most recent role. Explain the responsibilities and any major accomplishments you’re proud of. Then move on to any other experience that’s relevant to the role you’re interviewing for and why you think it might make you a good fit. Then, after all that, if they ask about your cat, go for it!?

For more, here’s a great article all about how to talk about yourself in an interview: https://www.themuse.com/advice/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question-answer-examples?

PRO TIP 4: SHOW INTEREST, NOT DESPERATION

Even if you are desperate for a job, don’t let it show. Companies want to hire you because you’re confident, smart and the best choice for the job. So never beg. It’s awkward for you and for the interviewer. Stay cool and let your confidence shine through your body language. You won’t regret it.??

We don’t have a link for this tip. All we can say is, don’t do it. You’re better than that.?

PRO TIP 5: KNOW WHY YOU WANT THE JOB

The chances that you’ll get asked this question are high. Very high. And, why not? If you were interviewing someone, wouldn’t you want to know what made that person choose that role at your company??

So, get your answer ready. Study the job description and include some key points in your answer that align with your skills, strengths, interests, and career goals.?

And, the good news is, even if you’re not asked this question, knowing the answer will help you answer similar questions that may come up.?

Want more on answering this question? Check this out from Robert Half: https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/job-interview-tips/how-to-answer-why-do-you-want-to-work-here?

PRO TIP 6: A THANK YOU GOES A LONG WAY

Who doesn’t like to be thanked? It’s just common courtesy. It may sound old fashioned but thanking someone for their time is never a waste of time. If anything, the interviewer will remember you as a decent person. And who doesn’t want to work with a decent person??

If the thought of writing a thank you stresses you out, here’s a few examples from Indeed.com: https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/sample-thank-you-letter-after-interview

As always, Women’s CoLab is here to help you along your career journey. For tips, tools and other powerful career resources visit our Learning Platform on Degreed.