INTERVIEWS ARE YOUR CHANCE TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPRESSION WITH A POTENTIAL EMPLOYER.
The first in-person meeting can really make or break your opportunity to move forward in the selection process. To help potential candidates, we spoke with Talent Acquisition Manager, Amanda, to get her tips on preparing for an interview. Here is her checklist of top things to do before an interview.
- Pick out your outfit the evening before. Choosing an outfit in advance will give you piece of mind that you’ll be dressed for success. We would suggest going for business casual, remember dressing the part can leave a lasting first impression and sets the tone for your interview. A collared shirt or blouse is always a safe bet.
- Practice your answers in the mirror, with a friend or on a recording device.
- Come up with a list of talking points you’d like to mention for potential questions you may be asked. These may include questions such as: Tell us about your self? Tell us about your most recent role? Why do you want this role? Or, share an accomplishment you are most proud of. This form of preparation will allow you to demonstrate your skills and experience.
- Come up with a list of questions you would like to ask. For instance, what are some of the day to day challenges of the role? What are you looking for in an applicant? what are the next steps in the interview process? Asking these kinds of questions will show your determination and demonstrate to the employer, your interest in the role.
- It’s also a great idea to do research about the company. Look at their website and look up the Manager you’ll be meeting with on LinkedIn. Knowing some of this information can be helpful talking points for your conversation with the interviewer. It also showcases your knowledge and genuine interest in the company.
- When doing the interview, take your time. Take a pause before answering each question, just a few seconds, to form your thoughts and answer. Remembering to pause also helps deliver your answer clearly to the interviewer.
- Be focused on the task at hand. Turn off your phone or put your ringer on mute. Don’t let yourself be distracted by other things going on. The interviewer is focused on you, return that interest. The last thing you want is for an interviewer to think you are uninterested during the interview process.
- Stay positive and energetic. We are eager to hear about you and talk with you. Let that winning personality show!