Have you ever been to a job interview and just completely blanked when trying to come up with an answer an employer’s question? Going into an interview for any internship or job can be rather overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be.The key is to go into the interview prepared for anything.
1. DO YOUR RESEARCH!
Before you walk into the interview room, make sure you do a good amount of research not only on the position you are applying for, but on the company as well. This research will benefit you more than anything. In fact, after you’re done you may decide the company or position is not the right fit for you. This will save both you and the employer time. Then if it turns out you are still interested, you will impress the employer during the interview with your overall knowledge on the company.
2. QUESTIONS YOU CAN EXPECT
There are many questions that can arise during a job interview. Here are a few common questions employers today are asking candidates in order to narrow down their search…
“What are some of your strengths?”
“What are some of your weaknesses?”
“Where do you see yourself in 5 years”
“Describe yourself using only 3 words”
You are, in a nutshell, selling yourself to this employer. Don’t walk into an interview blind! Not only should you practice how you are going to answer these questions, but practice how you are going to deliver them as well! SMILE! BE CONFIDENT! MAKE IT PERSONAL! BE YOURSELF!
3. ASK QUESTIONS YOURSELF
In addition to this, you should also prepare questions to ask the employer towards the end of the interview.
Some questions you might want to ask are…
“What does success look like in this position?”
“How would my success be measured?”
“What opportunities will I have to learn and grow?”
“Is there any reason you are hesitant in hiring me?”
You may even want to type up some questions and bring them with you to the interview. Trust me, the employer won’t mind. Not only will this show him/her that you are prepared, but that you are eager to fulfill the position.
4. WHERE TO START
Don’t know where to start?
LinkedIn is a great tool to take advantage of when preparing for an interview.
TedTalks have proven to be beneficial as well (& super entertaining too!).
Personally, I like to visit websites such as Monster.com or Indeed.com to read about questions people who previously applied to work at said company were asked during their interview(s).
They have already seen your resume; the interview is the time to highlight your skills. What can you bring to the table? What skills do you possess that would be of value to the company? Everyone gets nervous, but the more interviews you experience, the easier it will get! Just take a deep breath, follow these tips, and I promise you will succeed in whatever it is you are looking to do.
P.S. Don’t forget to follow up! A timely email or handwritten letter is a great way to thank the interviewer(s) for taking the time out of their day to meet with you.
I hope these tips help you have a successful interview with the company of your dreams! Interviews don't have to be difficult, as long as you come prepared with your best self it should be a breeze!
Were these suggestions helpful? Let us know what you think! Check out OurFirstJobSearch.com for more information on landing your interview!