Finding the job of your dreams isn’t always the hardest part of a job search. The job interview is arguably the most stressful part of the process. So, how do you prepare? We’ve put together the ultimate guide to nailing your next job interview.
1. Educate yourself
Start by educating yourself about the company interviewing you. Check out their website, social media, and research who they are and their company values. It shows you’re really interested in working there and can give you an edge over the competition.
2. Practice makes perfect
If not perfect, at least prepared. Let’s face it, a job interview is the ultimate sales job, and you’re selling you! So, take the time to figure out how you want to do that. Examine your core skills and contemplate what you think you can do for the company. How can you bring value to their team? Say it out loud and do a practice run with a friend.
3. Have a professional resume
Your resume should be well-organized and look professional. Proofread it a few times to make sure there are no misspellings or errors. Most employers will think, if the resume is sloppy that the person will be sloppy as well, Of course, a great resume can get you in the door for that interview, but if you can’t speak to what’s actually on it, you won’t look credible. Review your resume when you’re practicing and prepare answers to questions that might come up.
4. Be confident
Even if you aren’t. Make eye contact and believe your own hype. You know the expression – fake it till you make it? Well, confidence often means quality in the eyes of a hiring manager. Just don’t be over-confident. You know what you can do and what you’ve done. Don’t be afraid to share your pride in those accomplishments.
5. Be an active listener
Yes, you’re the one being interviewed, but actively listen and be engaged with your interviewer. It’s understandable to be nervous but try to avoid long, rambling responses. Keep it to the point and don’t be afraid to ask questions of your own. Better to learn now if it might not be a perfect fit after all.
6. Dress for success
It might sound cliché but definitely arrive dressed like you want the job. Business casual is usually a safe bet. But also make sure you’re not wearing a heavy cologne, perfume or over the top makeup that might distract from the interview.
7. Circle back
Follow up a few days after your interview to thank your interviewer for their time. Try to reiterate some key points that were discussed during the interview to demonstrate your interest and that you were paying attention to the finer points of the discussion.
8. Don’t be afraid of your past failures
Everybody has them. And you’ll often find yourself being asked specific questions during your interview about why you left a particular job or how you may have handled conflict. Employers want to know how you’ll handle stress and potential negative situations so it’s always best to be open and honest. Just try to highlight the positive outcomes when you have the opportunity.
9. COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
There are common interview questions that you can prepare for. However, it is never good to memorize an answer because it sounds unauthentic. Always understand what you want to say and the points you want to make with each interview question. Also, try to tell a story about why the employer should consider you for the job. Some common interview questions include:
Tell Me About Yourself
This is an opportunity for you to tell an employer about your work experience, eagerness to work at the company and anything else that will get you hired. It is not the time for personal information about your life, philosophy or religion.
What is Your Greatest Strength?
Chose something that will enhance your ability to do the job. Understand what your employer is looking for and talk about why you are strong at a certain role, quality or skill.
What is Your Greatest Weakness?
Although it is not time for you to make your weakness a strength, like I work too hard or never take breaks. You can turn a negative into a positive by talking about how you are trying to improve yourself in a certain area.
Can You Work Nights, Weekends or Overtime?
Answer this one honestly. If the job you are applying for expects you to work nights, weekends or overtime and you are not able to then it might not be the right job for you to accept. Nothing is worse than saying yes to a job that doesn’t fit your schedule.
Why are You Leaving Your Current Role?
This is not the time to talk ill about your former employer. A good answer is to say that you are looking to transition into a new career, take on a different challenge or find that you like a certain aspect of the new job. Never lie in an interview.
Do You Have Any Questions for Me?
This is your opportunity to shine. You should always have questions for the employer. Do your research about the company and ask questions about things you want to learn more about. You can also ask about the work atmosphere or what it is like to work with your new supervisor. This is however not the time to talk about salary or benefits. Leave that up to the final interview.
They don’t call it a dream job for nothing! Interviews can be stressful but preparing for them in advance can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for your dream job, a whole new career or just want to enhance your existing skill set, ICT can help you do it!
As an ICT student, you will have the opportunity to work with our Career Services team. They specialize in providing direct support and guidance in resume preparation, arranging interviews, negotiating employment offers, and more.
Contact us today to learn more about what ICT can do for your future.
