Are you getting ready for a job interview after a while of not being in the workplace? Here's our best interview tips for you!
Job Interview Tips
1. Dress To Impress
Depending on where you are interviewing at, do your research and dress in what other employees who work their do.
If they have a specific color they like, wear that color! Your job is to make the hiring manager see you as ready for the role.
2. Practice answering questions
There's always going to be times where you get a random question you weren't expecting, but for the most part a lot of the same questions are asked over and over.
Practice how you will answer in such a way that shows why they would be lucky to have you join their team.
3. Have an answer for any gaps in employment
Life happens and most people understand that but make sure you have an answer or explanation for any gaps in employment.
Also make sure to let them know if you took any classes, or certification classes during these gaps.
4. Do some research about the company before the interview
It's good to know some background information about the company before you go into an interview. Look at what their mission statement is or their core beliefs.
This will help you tailor better responses that show you have aligning values.
5. Be early
Always plan for the unexpected, and show up 5-15 minutes early. Never be late to an interview, because first impressions can be everything.
6. Ask questions at the end
Most interviewers will give you the chance to ask some questions, and this is your chance to do just that!
Here's some suggestions:
- What's your favorite part about working here?
- What does a typical day look like?
- Can you tell me about the team I will be working with?
- How do you typically onboard employees?
- What am I not asking you that I should?
- What are the next steps in the hiring process?
7. Turn off your cellphone
Plan for there to be no interruptions, and this includes your phone. Turn it off before going into your interview.
8. Answer questions honestly
An interview is the time where you need to be 100% honest with your future boss or hiring manager after your qualifications, and questions they might ask you.
9. Make eye contact
This shows you are trustworthy, so make sure to make eye contact when you are talking and answering questions.
10. Be yourself
The most important thing is to be yourself! Show them who they are hiring and why you are an asset to their company or team.
Use what makes you unique to help explain why you would be the best fit.
This is especially important because there is only one you, and if they really like you they aren't going to want to hire anyone else.
What should you not say in an interview?
Another way to prepare for your interview is to learn what not to say. Here's some things you should avoid talking about or saying:
- "It's on my resume." Even if it is, you want to be excited to talk and discuss what you know. Don't make more work for the hiring manager or they are going to pass.
- Being negative to previous employer or boss. If you start talking about how bad your last job was, they are going to see you as not much of a team player.
- "I don't know." If you are applying for a role, you better know or have an answer that suggests you are willing to learn.
- "What's the pay/benefits?" Sure it's something we all want to know, but don't get ahead of yourself. An interview is their chance (and yours) to see if you would be a good fit with their company.
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