I had my first job interview when I was seventeen. I wore my mother’s blouse (which was too big for me) and a nervous smile on my face. Five years later, I have improved my interviewing skills and would like to share what I have learned.
Here are seven helpful tips for when you attend your next interview:
1. Research the company.
Know the company you’re applying to. Find out what they do and what they stand for. Also, know the industry you’re getting into. You want to have an answer when they ask you “Why [insert desired industry]?” It also helps to know a little bit about who’s interviewing you. Get this information before your interview and find out shared interests you may have with them. And of course: know the job description.
2. Prepare for interview questions.
Has anyone ever said “Tell me about yourself” and you found yourself at a loss for words? You need to be able to pitch yourself in just 60 seconds. Open with who you are—name, school and major. Next, tell them what you’re interested in and why. Finally, share a meaningful experience and what it taught you. Also, research possible interview questions for your specific industry and prepare answers that give real-life examples and stories. If the employer asks you to tell them about a problem you faced and how you solved it, spend less time on the problem and more time on the solution.
3. Know your strengths and weaknesses.
One of the most common interview questions is: “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Be able to list your strengths and give examples to support each one. Some desired strengths by employers include: adaptability, problem-solving, self-motivated, working in teams, communication and passion.
When you talk about a weakness, communicate to the employer that you are aware of it and explain what you have been doing to work on it and turn it into a strength. Employers want to know that you are self-reflective and have learned from your mistakes.
4. Be authentic and show your passion.
A lot of people think they need to have all the correct answers in an interview—this can cause them to come across as rehearsed and insincere. Remember to be your most authentic self and let your personality shine through. Employers want to see the real you and want to hear about what you’re passionate about. Passionate people who act with purpose are contagious.
5. Know your worth.
Know not only what the company can do for you, but what you can do for the company. What do you have to offer? What would you be able to contribute to the company and your role? What sets you apart from every other candidate? Remember to be confident and believe in yourself when you answer these questions.
6. Ask questions.
Employers tend to ask “Do you have any questions for me?” at the end of the interview. Don’t pass this opportunity up! Ask them about what their experience is like working for the company. Get an inside scoop and learn about the company culture and structure. Learn about what your day-to-day responsibilities would be. You want to show the employer that you are interested in working for them and are eager to learn.
7. Send them a thank you email.
Always, always, ALWAYS thank a person for their time. Get the employer’s contact information and follow up with them shortly after the interview. Thank them for meeting with you and remind them how passionate you are about the company and the job position. If you forget to mention something in the interview, add it into your thank you. And if you want, send them an invite on LinkedIn!
I hope these seven tips are helpful for your next interview. Remember to be confident and know your worth! Let your personality shine through and show the employer why you are the best candidate for the job. Give specific examples in your answers and don’t forget: PREPARE. Happy job hunting!
