When going to a job interview how do I do the best I can?

Answer 1

Do your research Visit the potential employer’s website and familiarize yourself on the company’s mission, it’s involvement in the community, as well as their products and services. Having prior knowledge of the company you hope to work for will show your interviewer that you are a motivated, self sufficient individual who is eager and interested in working for their company. Prepare Consider what you hope to learn from the interview. Job interviews are a great opportunity to feel out the company to determine if it is the right fit for you. Have prepared questions to ask your interviewer to gather any information you are lacking about the position. Contemplate the kind of questions you may be asked and having a few answers prepared ahead of time. This will keep you from rambling or searching for answers on the spot. Here are a few examples to consider: i) What do you love most about working here? ii) What is the company’s biggest accomplishment in the last year? iii) What type of working environment / the dynamics of the department I’m being considered for? Examine your resume Make sure you read through your resume and ensure there are no spelling mistakes. Other things to watch out for are long gaps of employment, or having too many jobs in a short period of time. These send up red flags to employers about your reliability. Have explanations prepared for any gaps in employment and remain honest about your employment history. Last but not least, make a few copies of your resume to bring with you in case it is needed. Prepare references Many employers will want to contact your references following your interview. Make sure you have recently contacted your references to inform them that you are seeking work and they may receive a call. It is also important to make sure that you have compiled an up to date list of references with all current phone numbers, company names, contact names, and job titles. In most cases email addresses would be ideal. Practice If you are still nervous about your interview it can be helpful to practice with a friend. Role-play and have them ask you questions you think may be asked. Have them give you feedback on your communication skills and the clarity of your responses. Know where you are going Take some time before the interview to confirm and familiarize yourself with the location. Showing up late for your interview will significantly diminish your chances of being chosen by a potential employer. Plan your route and do a practice run to judge how long it will take you to arrive at the interview location. Appearance Nothing turns off a potential employer more than a candidate who looks sloppy. Dress professionally and make sure you are neat and clean before an interview. Never chew gum during an interview, or smoke during an interview. Remember it is better to be overdressed than underdressed. Arrival Be punctual for your interview. Turn off your cell phone so you will not be distracted. Greet your interviewer with a smile, make eye contact and give a firm handshake. Take a deep breath, concentrate and relax. The Interview Excellent communication skills are a valuable asset for any candidate. Speak clearly and at an even pace. Look your interviewer in the eyes and always listen intently to what they are saying. This demonstrates to an interviewer that you are enthusiastic and confident. Restrain yourself from interrupting your interviewer and don’t get too personal. Interviewers like to get an impression of who you are but don’t want to hear every detail of your personal life. Always speak positively of past employers as this will reflect well upon you. Don’t be afraid to sell your skills for this is the whole purpose of the interview. Let the interviewer know why you think you would be a valuable addition to their team. Ask questions and take notes. The most important thing to remember in an interview is just to relax and let the employer see what a great candidate you are. Good Luck!