How to Crush an Interview?
Do you know according to legaljobs’ research, most Job interviews last only for 45 to 60 minutes?
In even such a competitive marketing industry, a lot of the time interview procedure is very predictable. You get ready to answer any question that comes your way, but still, you never know what will happen. You go to the interview with your resume and then do what?
You are there to win the lottery and land yourself the job. It is not a hobby but your career that makes it essential to go into the interview with the right mindset. Sometimes, you need a bit of extra preparation to get through the procedure confidently.
One small step can mean the difference between being offered a job and not. Preparation is the key and a vital part of success, so don't risk failing your interview by not being well-prepared.
Keep your chin up with this ultimate guide to crush your interview with everything you need to know to get through the process.
Getting Ready for the Interview
Consider the followings before going to the interview:
1. Research the Company and Interviewers
Before going into any interview, you should always research the company and the interviewer to be better prepared and make a better first impression. Find different ways to figure it out. For example, You can start by looking up the company's website and checking the products or services they offer. You can read any news articles or blog posts about the company. If you know who will be interviewing you, look up their LinkedIn profile or search for any articles they've written. The more you know about the company and the interviewer, the better set you'll be for it.
2. Set Your Resume According to the Job Requirements
Set your resume according to the Job requirements to make it easier for the hiring manager to find what they are looking for and better understand your qualifications. Don't know what to do? Here is it.
First, create a clear, concise, and accurate summary of your career experience at the top of your resume to let the interviewer know what job you are interviewing for and how your skills and expertise can contribute to the position they offer.
Next, ensure the reader understands why you are qualified for the position by providing specific examples from your previous work experience that illustrate why you are the best person for the job. It is an excellent way to provide proof to back up any claims you make in your resume that may seem exaggerated or impossible to prove otherwise.
Finally, and most effectively, tailor your resume to that specific position by including only information relevant to the job opening but don't list irrelevant or unnecessary information that doesn't directly relate to the job posting.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep it Relevant to the Job Title
If you're applying for a job that requires a lot of experience and impressive educational background, don't be afraid to mention them in your resume summary! But if the job is something that doesn't require as much experience or a fancy degree, it might be better to focus more on your accomplishments and skill set instead of what the company will get to hire you.
3. Practice your Answers to Common Interview Questions
Practicing your answers to common interview questions before time will help you feel more comfortable and confident when answering the questions during the actual interview.
A couple of questions to practice before your interview can be about your experience, skills, and goals. Think about how you would answer each of these questions, and then practice saying your answers out loud.
Additionally, to practice your answers to common questions, it is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the interview format. This means you will know what to expect and be better prepared to answer the questions.
4. Read the Job Description Carefully
Many job seekers make the mistake that they can wing it during an interview by not bothering to read the job description beforehand. But, if you want to make a good impression on the interviewer, you need to be familiar with the job description to speak intelligently about the position.
Knowing what the company is looking for in a potential employee will let you show them that you have those qualities.
💡 Pro Tip: Familiarize Yourself with the Company
After reading the job description thoroughly, you can set up a more fluid conversation with your interviewer. So take time to read the job description before the great interview to make a difference.
5. Use the STAR Strategy
The situation, Task, Action, and Result:
STAR is a powerful tool to help you prepare for a great interview. Take some time to recall your past work experiences that align with the job posting. For each, think about the situation you are in, the task you are trying to accomplish, the actions you take, and the result of your efforts.
It will help you be well-prepared to answer interview questions, giving you a chance to reflect on your accomplishments and what you bring to the table as a potential employee.
6. Set an Effective Portfolio of Your Work
When you are in a job interview, the interviewer will like to see some examples of your work. It is especially true if you're applying for a creative position, like a job in graphic design or advertising. It's influential to be prepared with a portfolio of your best work to show your capabilities to the interviewer.
If you don't have a portfolio, don't worry – there are other ways to show your work. You could get along hardcopy samples of your work or even digital copies to show on your phone or laptop. Make sure you're prepared to showcase your skills and talent in a way that will impress the interviewer.
7. Professional Dress for the Job
Mostly, job seekers understand the importance of dressing for the job they want, but some don't realize to dress professionally for an interview can be just as important. Dressing appropriately for the job shows that you are serious about the opportunity and willing to put in the effort to make a good interview impression.
So, it is vital to take the time to research the company's dress code and ensure you are dressing appropriately for the interview.
8. Have a Drink
Before you start your job interview, make sure to drink plenty of water. It will keep your vocal cords lubricated, preventing them from drying out and cracking during the interview. It will also help to keep your mind clear and focused.
Drinking water before your interview will help you be at your best during the meeting. It will also help you keep your cool if the interview gets heated. Plus, if you're nervous about the interview, have a drink to feel relaxed.
9. Don't Be Late For The Interview
The things to ensure you are in the right mindset before the interview are easy to follow.
First, sleep tight before the interview day and eat a healthy breakfast.
Second, review your qualifications and the job requirements to be confident in your abilities.
Third, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that you are a capable individual.
Finally, don't be late for your interview online, office, etc.
These steps can help you arrive at the interview feeling relaxed and ready to impress the hiring manager.
Get in the Interview
1. Make a Great First Impression
When you get into an interview, first impressions are the key.
During the interview, make eye contact, smile, and be engaging.
Be enthusiastic about the opportunity, and be sure to sell yourself.
Give gratitude to the interviewer for their time afterward.
These simple steps will drive you to make a remarkable first impression and increase your chances of getting the job.
💡 Pro Tip: Know the Interviewer’s Name, Spelling, and Pronunciation
Another vital tip in creating a good impression during a job interview is to know the interviewer's name, spelling, and pronunciation.
This simple move shows that you are interested in the position and that the person with you is engaged in the conversation. It allows you to build rapport and establishes a basic level of mutual respect.
If you are unsure of the interviewer's name, ask them when you first get in the interview. Most hiring managers are happy to provide this information and will appreciate your efforts to be polite and professional.
2. Practice Good Body Language
When you are on the way to an interview, how you carry yourself while interacting with the interviewer is just as important as what you say. Good body language during an interview conveys confidence, professionalism, and allure to the position.
Make eye contact with the interviewer, sit straight, and avoid fidgeting. Smile or nod when you feel appropriate, and don’t cross your arms or legs. If you have a firm handshake, that's a bonus.
Concentrate on the interviewer's body language and mirror it back to maintain a rapport. Lean in slightly when they lean in and keep eye contact throughout the discussion.
Practicing pleasing body language will help you show your focus in the meeting.
3. Respond Truthfully
In today's job market, being honest during your job interview is more effective than before. With so many people competing for the same position, employers are looking for above-board candidates with their qualifications and abilities.
If you're not entirely truthful about your qualifications, you will be set up for disappointment down the road.
Being honest about your qualifications is paramount to let the employer gauge whether or not you're a good fit for the position. If you're not honest, and the employer finds out later, it will reflect poorly on you and may damage your chances of getting the job.
So, be honest during your job interview, and give yourself the best chance of impressing the employer and getting the job you want.
4. Keep Your Answers Focused
When you are in an interview, it is essential to keep your answers focused on the topic imminent. It can be difficult, especially if you are nervous, but it is crucial to remember that the interviewer is not looking for a detailed account of your life story.
Instead, they are looking for specific information about your qualifications and experience. Therefore, stay on topic and be strict in answering the questions exactly.
5. Listen More Than Talking
It's always important to be an active listener during an interview. After all, you want to respond accurately to the interviewer's question. If you're talking more than the interviewer, it will come across being arrogant or even desperate. So what to do if you have to speak?
💡 Pro Tip: Ask Smart Questions
Asking questions about the job and the firm during an interview can be an excellent way to show your curiosity. It will also let you better understand your role and what to expect from it.
But, be careful not to ask too many questions or take up too much of the interviewer's time. Instead, focus on a few key questions that will help you learn more about the job and company you could not get in research.
6. Smile - Be Positive
When you're in an interview, it's binding to keep smiling and staying positive. Keep a smile on your face, and be positive throughout the interview to show the interviewer that you're the right candidate for the job.
After the Interview - Don’t Just Leave
1. Ask About The Next Steps
After the interview, it is significant to ask the interviewer about the next steps in the hiring process. It indicates that you are still interested in the position and will give you an idea of when to expect a decision.
It is also a pleasant opportunity to thank the interviewer for their time and express your interest in the position last time.
2. Send a Proper "Thank You" Email
“Thank you" is always a good idea, especially after a job interview. A "Thank you" Email shows your interviewer that you appreciated their time. Plus, it's just good manners!
Don’ts of an Interview
When it comes to nailing that all-important job interview, there are a few things you should be aware of not to do. Here are things to avoid to boost your chances of success!
1. Badmouthing Your Current or Previous Boss
Even if you had a bad experience at your last job, resist the urge to badmouth your former employer in an interview. It not only makes you look unprofessional and bitter, but it's a major turn-off for potential employers.
If you're asked about your current or previous job, focus on the positive. Highlight the things you've learned and the skills you've gained.
2. Asking About Salary and Benefits
In most cases, you shouldn't bring up the topic of salary and benefits in an interview. It's premature, and it makes you look like you're more interested in the money than the job.
If the interviewer asks you about salary, be honest about your expectations. But don't be too specific. It's best to wait until you have an offer in hand before getting into the nitty-gritty details.
3. Interruption
Interrupting shows a lack of respect and is a surefire way to make a wrong impression. Let the interviewer finish first before you start answering.
4. Being Vague About Your Experience
When an interviewer asks about your experience, they're looking for specific examples of what you've done. They want to know how your relevant experience to the job.
So, don't be vague in your responses. Give grounded examples of the skills and experience that make you a good fit for the job.
Conclusion
It can be stressful to go into an interview and come out with the job offer in hand. However, it is possible to nail the interview and make a great impression.
Follow this guide to get an edge over the competition by preparing and conquering the great interview.
Questions to Answer
How to Answer Problematic Questions in an Interview?
When you're in an interview, the questions you're asked can be daunting, and it's easy to get tongue-tied or worry that you're not giving the best answer. If you don't have an answer to a question, take a deep breath and think through your response before the answer.
It's better to take a few moments to gather your thoughts than to blurt out something not matter-of-fact or well-thought-out.
How to Write a Good-Looking "Thank You" Email?
When writing a "Thank you" Email after an interview, be sure to include the following:
- A brief thank the interviewer for their time.
- A word of something you enjoyed or found interesting about the conversation in the interview.
- A rehash that you are really interested in the job.
- A request for continued consideration.
- A closing remark.