After working on your resume and applying for many jobs there is some good news, you have been selected for an interview. Congratulations! Unfortunately, interviewing is stressful. It is a high pressure situation and even more so if it is a job that you especially want or need. Other stressful factors include how long you have been unemployed, whether you have a lot going on in your personal life, and feeling either burned out from having too many interviews or nervous because there are high stakes since you have had too few interviews. I look at interviewing as a skill to develop. Like riding a bike or learning an instrument, practice is key. Please read below for a few additional tips to do well at your next interview.
Research and learn more about the company
Showing the interviewer that you have done research is always good. It shows that you cared enough to take time out of your schedule to learn something about the company. It can also lead you to ask questions to the interviewer that sound impressive. I would try to learn something more substantial than surface level. For example, if you read the company is pivoting its operations to work more in Asia you could say you noticed that in a financial report and ask something like how will that affect the business strategy going forward.
Do a mock interview
Mock interviews are great practice. To go back to the bike riding metaphor, it is all about practice to feel less nervous and have answers that flow smoothly as opposed to nerves that can cause hesitation when answering questions. It is an option to see a career counselor or coach to do a mock interview. This can provide you with valuable objective feedback on ways you can improve for an actual interview. Most clients that I have done a mock interview with have reported that it is helpful. I have also talked with clients about questions they get asked that they are unsure how to answer which enables us to strategize how to best answer those questions naturally and confidently. If you are unable to do a mock interview with a career counselor try to do one with a friend or family member. You can google common interview questions and then have them ask you those questions. Another option is to read the questions and then speak your answers in front of a mirror. Any amount of practice is beneficial!
Dress Appropriately
If your interview is in-person it’s crucial to look the part and dress your best. With some exceptions, I believe it’s generally best to dress professionally unless you have been directed otherwise by the person interviewing you. Looking sharp never hurts and if you dress inappropriately it could be viewed negatively by your interviewer. Being in the office will give you an idea of how others dress so most likely this will be the only time you will need to dress formally but hopefully you will make a great first impression to kick off the interview!
Interviews are stressful but are an essential component of getting a job. It is natural to feel stressed as you are trying to put your best foot forward to get something important in your life, a job. If you want to excel in your interview, research and learn more about the company, do a mock interview for practice, and make sure you dress appropriately. If you are still struggling with interviews, career counseling can help. Contact me for a free consultation.