Interview Tips & Guides (In-Person)

You might have probably gone through a lot of interviews before and you know you're already good at it. But what exactly could you have done or prepared differently to get close to an exciting new employment opportunity? Here are some tips and guides that will help you ace the?interview and get a better chance of landing an amazing job offer!

Note: If you're working with a recruiter or career coach, make sure you communicate extensively. Don't hesitate to ask them to have you prepped up prior to your interview. Why? Because they do know who the manager is and what the manager needs.

Pre-Interview:

• Print out and bring multiple copies of your resume (if applicable only). In the event that there are extra managers in the interview, you want them to have a few extra copies of your resume.
• Bring a notepad and pen. Write a list of questions you can ask the interviewer(s) on the notepad. This is also useful in jotting down what they say as a response during the interview.
• Questions to ask the hiring manager (at least 3 or more questions). Almost as important as answering the questions properly, is to ask good questions to the interviewer. This shows your level of interest and that you have done research too.
• Write and prepare a good intro. A good way to handle the interview is to learn how you can control the interview and not the interviewer control the interview. The most effective way is to create a good elevator pitch of yourself including your current career situation, expertise, educational background, and the reason why you're applying for the job. Memorize it by heart and so it will come out naturally from you.
• Prepare a short presentation (if applicable). Commonly for people managers or analyst level positions that are expected to deliver presentations to customers and/or higher management. Create a brief summary ideally in PDF or PowerPoint presentation to demonstrate your achievements, successful projects, or process improvements implemented along with the outcome, etc. that may look more compelling to the interviewers. You can do this either at the initial interview stage with the manager or up to the final interview. The Hiring Manager would love it for sure!
• Knowledge of the company. Failure to make research about the company you are applying to is one of the biggest mistakes of job seekers. Next time, make sure to check out the company website online, take time to research the company, and know a few facts before going into the interview.
• Understanding of the job. Sometimes job details are too technical and may tend to confuse you. Make sure to go over the job description over and over again for a full understanding of what the role is. If in doubt, reach out to your recruiter.
• Dress Code. Typically smart casual attire, but it's better if you know?what the culture of the company is and the position you are applying for too. If possible, ask your recruiter to find out about the company dress code before the interview.
• Do not be late. Make sure you arrive at the interview at least 15-20 minutes early!?If you aren't familiar with the site, have a test drive or prepare a mapquest the day before the interview. Please be conscious of the potential traffic!
• NCNS. A no-call/no-show is very unacceptable and unprofessional. In the event that you're unable to attend the interview due to an unavoidable emergency or whatnot, have the decency to inform your point of contact via email, text, or call prior to the interview. Otherwise, that's breaking bridges between you, and the company.
• Relevant articles: Building a Better Resume , Telephone Interview Guidelines , What would you wish to know before going to a job interview?

The Interview:

• The first impression lasts. From the minute you walk into the facility you are being interviewed, be sure to make a good impression on everyone you see.?When meeting the manager, have a firm and confident handshake, maintain eye contact, be more engaging and personable, and always smile while talking. It does bring energy and excitement to your voice.
• When answering questions. Be clear and concise. It's good to be spontaneous but avoid providing a long-winded response that goes off-topic. When relevant, use a specific example of past experiences or any success story that could support your answers. Make use of the S-T-A-R method for practical story-telling answers demonstrating your experience. Visit "How to handle behavioral interviews? " to read more! This is also the best part of the interview to share the presentation you prepared. You may briefly provide more context but with a consciousness of the time allotted in the interview.
• Think before you speak. No company is perfect so never talk bad about your previous jobs or people you've worked with. It will only reflect poorly on you and not them. Remember, it's good, to be honest, but too much honesty isn't working in interviews so see things differently but in a positive and creative way.
• Ask for the job. Normally all interviews end with the interviewer asking you if you have any further questions. If there is, be mindful of asking the same questions over and over again, or questions that can be answered during the discussion. As a reminder, please shy away from any self-centered questions such as pay, vacation, hours of shift, and/or benefits. At the moment, stay focused on the job first, sell yourself, and convince them that you are the perfect fit for the role.
• Towards the end of the interview. Make sure to thank the hiring manager(s), and let them know your interest level. State your characteristics that will lend you to being successful in the role. And then ask if there is any hesitation they might have so that you can address it before leaving the interview room.

Post-Interview:

• After the interview, send them a personalized "thank you" letter note. It's optional though but this will definitely set you apart from the competition.
• It's okay to make a follow-up and ask for updates. It's your right as a candidate to know whether you are still under consideration.

Conclusion:

Interview preparation is always a must-have. Even the smartest and most highly qualified candidate needs to be prepared before going into an interview. Mainly because interviewing is a learned skill and there are no second chances to make a great first impression.

To all job seekers out there, best of luck on your searches! Stay positive and great things will happen. :)

"Preparation today leads to success tomorrow."

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