Author: Mike Cortez
Planning for a successful interview can make all the difference when trying to land the career of your dreams. Preparation is imperative in many aspects; however, in interviewing it can set you apart from the rest of the applicants competing for the same position.
If you want to leave a positive impression on a potential employer you want to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the company; so research, research, research! A good starting point is the company’s website or magazine and web articles; don’t forget publications available through business databases, they usually have a wealth of relevant information. Your main focus of researching should be relevant history of the company; as well as operations, markets and challenges.
Additionally, analyze the job description and be prepared to answer potential interview questions. Anticipating likely questions will allow you determine you stance on many aspects of the industry, position, and would allow you to articulate your response to best fit the job description. Doing so will help you develop and customize your responses, which would most definitely impress the interviewer.
If possible, determine who is in charge of the hiring process, a recruiter or manager. This will help you determine you’re approach to responses; a recruiter may not focus on the specific response but general knowledge and self-confidence. Furthermore, be ready to address weaknesses, such as employment gaps and “youthfulness,” in the best possible fashion. Downplay such apprehension and provide details on how you managed to overcome them and still be an asset to the company, without distorting the truth.
And, remember your appearance, personality, level of assertiveness, empathy, and communications style are critical. Here are some important factors you want you want to consider prior to the interview:
· Dress business professional
· Be consciousness of non-verbal communication, body language
· Mock interviews can help you build confidence and establish your style
· Speak as clearly as possible and adjusting voice pitch, how you speak is important as what you say
With these things in mind, there are just a couple more factors of the interview process that you want to strongly consider, which are the question-and-answer stage and the close.
Be prepared to answer significant questions the moment you meet the interviewer, doing so naturally that fits the flow of the conversation. Remember, you can't answer appropriately if you don’t truly listen, comprehending the question and answer they may be looking for.
In the close, it’s your last opportunity to make your mark on the interviewer and emphasize your worth and interest in the company. Be sure to ask pertinent questions that will help promote your interest in the position, as well as understanding of the organization.
Lastly, always , always follow up! Obtain the interviewers contact information and send them a thank you letter stating your appreciation of their time and opportunity of possible employment.
Best of luck to all, but more importantly, prepare and be ready to market yourself appropriately.
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