Has it been a while since your last interview? Or do you think you’re a seasoned pro? Here’s a look at the basics of interviewing to serve as a good refresher, even if you think you know the drill. If you don’t have these basics down, you’re not showing up to your best advantage.
Be On Time
Just about the worst thing you can do in an interview is be late. Make every effort to arrive on time, if not early, to your appointment. This may require planning your commute more effectively and even familiarizing yourself with the meeting location beforehand. It’s worth it, because being late will lose you the opportunity. Don’t leave it up to chance.
Put Your Best Foot Forward
One of the most basic rules is that you need to look your best in an interview. People evaluate your professionalism based on how you are dressed. Interview attire should be more formal than what you likely would wear to work in the job you are applying for. In most cases this means a suit and tie for men, and equally formal attire for women. Keep accessories and perfumes to a minimum, and do what you can to model the culture of the company in your attire.
Do Your Homework
Before you arrive at the interview, you should not only know the job description forward and backward, but you should also be prepared to eloquently explain how your previous work experiences have prepared you for the requirements and duties of the job. Don’t just show up and let the interviewer decide whether you’re a good fit. Tell them why you are a good fit. Do thorough research about the company you are interviewing with. Understand what they are looking for from the role. Talk to people who already work there, or in a role similar to the one you are applying to. This will help provide you with the context you need to prove you’re the best fit for the job.
Don’t Forget a Quick Thank You
A brief emailed or hand-written thank-you note is a nice way to remind interviewers of their conversation with you. Especially on days when a manager interviews multiple candidates, you want to follow up with something polite and straightforward to cement your conversation in their memory. An effective thank-you note doesn’t need to be overly fancy, just thank the interviewer for their time, and tell them that you enjoyed speaking with them. This thank you note should be sent more or less as soon as the interview is over so that your conversation with them remains top of mind.
While seemingly simple, you should think of this follow-up activity as a way to show your professionalism and your personality. Avoid reminding them to contact you regarding the results of the interview and consider ending the note with a simple “I hope to see you again soon.” You don’t want to come across as pushy or entitled, but gracious for their time and consideration.
Are You Ready for Your Next Interview?
Now that you’ve brushed up on the fundamentals of interviewing, take a look at the great opportunities All-Star Personnel has to offer and apply today.
