One of the most nerve-wracking things we all have to do at some point in a job interview. Even the most well-prepared people can mess up. Making a lasting and positive first impression is imperative for an interview to lead to a job. Here are the best ways to perfect a job interview:
Research the Business
Taking the time to do your homework about the company you are interviewing with will ensure you go in prepared. Look at their website, blog, social media accounts, and what is said about them on job sites. You should also research their competitors to find out what makes them different.
Research the Interviewer
Cultural fit goes a long way with most hiring managers and how you come across is a big deal. Research the people conducting your interview and prepare accordingly. Have as clear an idea as possible about how to relate to the people at the company.
Prepare Insightful Questions
Asking your potential boss where they see their company in five years is a useful question sometimes, but other times it might compromise your credibility. The person conducting the interview might be looking for an expert in their field so they do not want someone asking about what daily activities will be like. Use your questions as a way to highlight relevant experience and skills.
Bring Extra Resume Copies
Plan to have a copy of your resume for every person you are meeting. They may not have a copy or even had the chance to look at it beforehand.
Look and Act the Part
Whether you need to wear a suit or not will depend on what kind of job you are interviewing for. Try to check online for clues as to how people at that company usually dress. You do not want to over or underdressed as you want to convey that you will fit in with the company culture. You should also give a firm handshake and remember to maintain proper posture and eye contact. Nod occasionally to show that you are listening and have a positive attitude. Using a healthy amount of hand gestures will reinforce that you have adequate communication skills.
Ask When to Hear a Decision
If you are interviewing several people, ask the hiring manager or the last person you met with when you can expect to hear an answer. How they respond could also tell you quite a bit about how they felt the interview went.
Send a Thank You Note
Before the end of the day of your interview, send a thank you email. Be sure to keep it short but personalize it to the person you met. Say a small detail or mutual interest you discussed. You can impress them even more by mailing a handwritten card.
Follow-Up
If you do not hear back in about a week, it is acceptable to follow-up with the hiring manager. Keep the follow-up brief and try to provide value instead of coming off pushy.
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