Congratulations!!! Odds are if you are reading this you have been invited to interview for a job, graduate school, etc. Whatever you have been invited to interview for, interviews are often one of the most stress inducing situations people find themselves in. You feel as if you are being viewed under a microscope and your every move is being calculated. Fear not! Here are some quick tips to make sure you ace your interview.
1. If you have not already, buy business professional clothing
You want to ask what the recommended dress is but always assume it is business professional. You would rather be overdressed than under dressed. Dress pants, a pencil skirt, and blazer or jacket is always a safe go to. Make sure you look very clean and cut (i.e. no wrinkles, clothing not too baggy or too loose). Professional shoes such as flats or modest heels. REMEMBER: only wear heels if you can walk well in them. :)
2. Make sure to research the organization or graduate program
GiphyBe familiar with this company or program. Nothing will make you seem more dedicated to the position by being able to talk about the company and certain areas that you are interested in. This will impress employers. Also if they ask you specifics of the company, it will be super awkward if you don't know anything.
3. Prepare for potential questions and responses
Preparing responses for yourself is always a good strategy to ease some stress. Have an idea of what the interviewers will ask such as: "Tell us about yourself. What are your strengths or weaknesses? Why did you apply for this position or program?" Don't prepare exact phrases or a speech because odds are you will not remember everything. Make a few bullet points of things you would like to touch on and go from there.
4. Practice with someone
GiphyGet real face to face practice so it will give you a better idea of what you will be experiencing in the real interview. Ask a friend, a family member, or your roommate! They will be able to tell you if you are rambling or being to figity so you can better yourself for the real deal.
5. Plan what to bring
Ask ahead of time if you need to bring anything specific. Plan to bring an extra copy of your resume just in case.
6. Make sure you know where to be and at what time
Showing up late to an interview is probably the worst thing you could do. It gives your employer or admissions committee that you are not very reliable. If your job interview is local, try driving over there a few days before just so you can get an idea of how long it will take you and if the area you are in is confusing.
7. Make sure you have a firm handshake
You wouldn't think this but a firm hand shake is everything. It shows that you are confident and empowered. Now, don't go breaking your interviewer's hand but make sure it is a firm handshake to let them know you mean business.
8. Be confident in yourself
Be confident in yourself! Try not to be too nervous. Remember they are obviously impressed with you and want to speak with you. Be professional but be yourself. You don't want to just tell them what they want to hear. It won't sound genuine. Be you.
9. Follow up
I learned this in a finance class in school. Follow up with your employer because odds are they have interviewed others, too. Make sure you send a follow up email, thanking them for their time and that you look forward to hearing from them soon. It puts your name right back into their heads.
Good luck with your interview!!! Remember to try not to be too nervous because they obviously want to speak with you. Be yourself and go kill it!
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