Have you ever prepared for an interview?. It can be hectic especially when preparing for your first job interview. I can assure you the nervousness never goes away.
So how do you prepare for an interview? below are a few steps you can pick on as you prepare for your perfect interview.
How to prepare for an interview
An interview, like anything else, needs thorough preparation. These are steps through which you can prepare for n interview
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1. Accept the interview.
This is one of the mistakes interviewees do. once they receive an interview proposal they go into anxiety mode and even forget to confirm interview attendance.
It is important to submit a confirmation note to your potential employer to let them know you are available for the interview.
2. Examine the job description
While doing your interview preparations, analyze the employer’s posted job description as a guide. The job description is a list of the qualifications, qualities and background the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate.
The more you can align yourself with these details, the more the employer will be able to see that you are qualified. The job description may also give you ideas about questions the employer may ask throughout the interview.
3. Make a skills match
Once you have created a list of the qualifications for the job, make a list of your assets and match them to the job requirements.
Create a list of up to 10 of your assets that match the requirements of the job. These might include skills, qualities, certifications, experiences, professional qualifications, abilities, computer skills, and knowledge bases. You can bring up some of these assets when you explain to the employer why you are a great fit for the job.
Also, think of examples from past work experiences that show you have these qualities. This way, if the interviewer asks you to describe a time when you demonstrated a particular skill or ability, you will be ready.
4. Research more about the company
For an interview, always read about about the company in advance. Get to know what they do, their clients, and their products or services.
Here your goal is to learn about what they do . by going through their portfolio you realize you are able to distinguish their services form those of other competitor employers.
Another thing research is important is, most employers want to hire someone who has information about their company. 90 per cent of the interviewers ask such questions like ” why do you want to join us”. It sounds ordinary but the moment you fail on that they switch off their mind on you.
The more you understand about the context they work in, the better you’ll be able to tailor your answers in a way that will be relevant to them.
5. Be confident and Sell yourself
One of the biggest challenges in an interview is selling yourself. Most people are uncomfortable with this idea, but presenting yourself accurately and positively doesn’t have to feel like a sale.
It is well known that good skills sell you out but without confidence, you can easily miss out.
While preparing for a job interview, make note of your skills that relate to the role and think of how your experiences and abilities can contribute to the overall goals of the department and company.
Make short and clear and relevant answers, and answer them with confidence. this will set you apart from other applicants.
If you have metrics or stats to show your accomplishments or growth during your previous roles, they’re a great help in selling yourself during the interview.
For example, you may have increased sales by let’s say 50 per cent increased social media engagement in your last position.
Read: How to Write an Outstanding Cover letter For Your Dream Job
6. Print hard copies of your resume
In most cases, employers have the soft copy you sent prior to the interview but it is important to carry a few extra copies.
Having copies to present to multiple interviewers shows that you’re prepared and organized. Generally, you should have at least three copies to provide for multiple interviewers, plus one for yourself to follow along.
Read over your resume and rehearse explanations for any gaps that may appear. For instance, you may have gaps in your resume such a study leave, maternity, or the numerous companies you have worked with. When such a question arises, be keen and quick to explain them to the employer however annoying it sounds. These gaps are a concern for employers, so it’s best to prepare your explanation to show them that you’re not a risk.
You may also encounter questions about your resume that are awkward. It’s important, to be honest, but diplomatic in addressing them. For example, you may have left a job because of your supervisor or manager, or policies that you didn’t agree with, but you don’t want to speak negatively about a former employer.
Consider these possible questions and prepare your answers in advance, so you don’t accidentally say something you’ll regret.
7.Practice Interview Etiquette
Proper interview etiquette is important. Remember to greet the receptionist, your interviewer, and everyone else you meet politely, pleasantly, and enthusiastically.
During the interview, watch your body language; shake hands firmly and make eye contact as you articulate your points. Pay attention, be attentive, and look interested. This is something you can work on in your practice interviews.
The more positive an impression you make, the better you’ll do during the job interview. These job interview etiquette tips will help you make the best impression on the hiring manager.
8. Pick out your weak points in an interview.
For example, people get nervous when asked about their past firing or even what salary they’re seeking. Truth is, no one prepares for a polished answer but practise gain again and again until you gain the confidence.
alternatively, do as many mock interviews as you possibly can with a friend. You’ll be much better at answering.
Just like public speaking, practising interviews is the best way to relieve anxiety and improve your confidence. The practice may be tedious, but repeatedly experiencing the interview process will make you more comfortable and help you give the right impression
9. Prepare questions for the interviewer
Many employers feel confident about candidates who ask thoughtful questions about the company and the position.
You should take time before the interview to prepare several questions for your interviewer. It shows you are well-versed about the position.
Some examples of questions you could ask include:
- What does a typical day look like for a person in this position?
- Why do you enjoy working here?
- What qualities do your most successful employees have?
10. Do follow up after the interview
After your interview, it’s a good gesture to do to follow up with the employer. It reminds the employer of your conversation. As well, it shows them you are genuinely interested in the position and gives you the opportunity to bring up points you forgot to mention.
Here are a few steps you can follow when crafting a follow-up note:
Remember to mention the specific job title and thank your interviewer for interviewing you.
secondly, note the company’s name as well as a conversation point and goal that seemed especially important to the person you spoke with. Connect that point to your experience and interests.
lastly, invite them to ask you any additional questions and close by saying you’re looking forward to hearing back.
How to prepare for an interview conclusion
If you don’t know the answer to a certain question, it is perfectly acceptable to pause for a moment and simply state, “Let me think about that for a moment.”
The employer will appreciate you taking the time to give them a thoughtful answer. Be sure to provide specific examples wherever possible. Taking time to prepare for an interview will ultimately help you feel more relaxed and confident during the process.
