by Fanarra
You have an interview coming up, now what?
The most important thing you should do before every interview is prepare. Preparing in advance makes a huge difference in your confidence, performance, and the interview outcome. Instead of just winging it at interviews, take at least an hour the day before to brainstorm and organize your thoughts.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Read the job description several times and highlight the key requirements. Most of the interview questions will be structured around the job description and requirements.
Read about the organization you are applying to. The best way to learn is to go through the company's website and look at their leaders on LinkedIn. If you do not have background information on the industry, take some time to learn more about it and any recent industry events.
Recall real life scenarios and examples you have experienced throughout your career relevant to the required tasks. Jog your memory on any important situations or achievements you want to discuss during the interview.
Try to come up with some questions you think they might ask and prepare your answers. Communication and leadership skills are both common topics at interviews.
Think about your key strengths and key areas of development. This will help you gather coherent and well-considered answers if you are asked about them.
Prepare questions you want to ask the interviewer. Interviewers will almost always leave time at the end and ask if you have any questions for them.
Dress to impress and show up at least 15 minutes earlier. If your interview is in person, take a copy of your CV to offer the interviewer. First impressions are important. If it is an online interview, still dress to impress and login five minutes early. Also, make sure to test your laptop and speakers and be in a quiet spot with a simple background.
Eye contact goes a long way at interviews; and if it is a panel interview with several members, make sure you interact with all of them.
Control your tone and pace, speak clearly and articulately.
Take a deep breath before answering any question, waiting a few seconds is always better than a hasty irrelevant response. It’s important to remain composed and have some answers prepared, but remember to be your authentic self.
After the interview, send a personalized follow up email thanking everyone that interviewed you. Thank them for their time, let them know you are excited about the opportunity, and ask them to email you if they have any other questions.
Be patient, sometimes it takes a few weeks to hear back. If you have not heard anything after two weeks, send a follow up email to the interviewer checking in and asking if they need any more information.
WRITTEN BY
Fanarra
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