So! You have this job you are interested in, already sent in your application, received a response for an interview, and are excitedly nervous and looking forward, or in some cases - dreading the interview process...great. Now let's take a moment to pause 3,2,1. Research, and reflect - great compass to a great interview. This can enhance your chances of success. Here are a few recommendations you can use to better prepare yourself for your next interview;
- Research the Company: It is highly recommended to conduct extensive research on the company you have applied to. Take the time to thoroughly understand their mission, values, products, or services, as well as any recent news or achievements. This comprehensive knowledge will not only leave a positive impression on the interviewer but also enable you to assess your alignment and compatibility with the company's goals and culture.
- Understand the Job Requirements: Review the job description and make sure you have a clear understanding of the skills, qualifications, and responsibilities required for the role. Identify specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate how you meet these requirements. This will enable you to provide relevant and compelling answers during the interview.To mention the obvious, a candidate without a proper job requirement match is likely to face challenges in effectively fulfilling the responsibilities and expectations of the role. We cannot risk time to performance - Interviewer's mind.
- Study the STAR Method: The STAR method is a systematic approach for addressing behavioral-based interview questions. It involves discussing the specific situation, task, action, and result of the scenario being described, ensuring a structured and comprehensive response. This method helps candidates provide specific examples that demonstrate their abilities and experiences, allowing them to effectively showcase their qualifications and stand out to potential employers. By utilizing this structured approach, candidates can provide clear and compelling responses that highlight their suitability for the role.
- Prepare Your Questions: Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest in the role and company while also providing an opportunity for you to gather important information. Ask about the company's culture, growth opportunities, or any specific projects or initiatives you are curious about.Questions such as the following can also be beneficial to understanding what your expected time to perform may look like for the first 90 days;
- How familiar are you with the job role and its responsibilities?
- Have you received any prior training or onboarding for similar positions?
- Are there any specific skills or knowledge gaps you need to address before starting the role?
- How long is the typical learning curve for someone in this position?
- Are there any specific projects or tasks that you will be accountable for during your first 60 days?
- How much support and guidance will you receive from mentors or colleagues?
- Are there any established processes or systems in place that will expedite your learning and productivity?
- Will you have access to any training resources or materials to aid in your onboarding process?
- Are there any key performance indicators or goals that you will be expected to achieve within the first 60 days?
- Have you been informed about any potential challenges or hurdles that might affect your speed of progress?
Addressing these questions can help boost our confidence, and help you build a clearer picture of what to expect and prepare accordingly for your first 90 days in the role. After the interview, send a personalized thank-you note or email to express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview. This gesture demonstrates your professionalism and leaves a positive impression on the interviewer.
With these few recommendations, I wish you a wonderful chat in your next interview!