You’re ecstatic. You just heard back from that perfect job you applied for and they want to meet you. You know you’d be perfect for the position, and can’t wait to show them what you can do.
But we all know what happens next. That ecstasy gives way to anxiety as the realization comes that first, you’ll have to make it through the dreaded interview. Because as much as you may believe that you’re the one for the job, you now have the task of convincing them that they simply can’t hire anyone else.
Luckily, there are a few tried and true tips that will help you leave a good impression on your interviewer and bring you that much closer to your dream job.
Arrive On Time
Obvious as it may seem, this is one of the easiest ways to immediately set a good impression. A good rule of thumb is to always arrive at least 10 minutes early. If you think you may have trouble finding the location, do a test run prior to the big day to make sure you know where you’re going and where you’re parking.
And if for any reason you are running late, call. Let your interviewers know as soon as possible that you’ll be late. The extra effort will absolutely be worth it.
Dress For Success
Another basic interview rule is to always dress business appropriately. With a neatly pressed suit or dress from a modern store like Touch of Modern, you’ll come across as professional and exude more confidence. If you show up looking too casual, you run the risk of losing that air of professionalism and looking like you didn’t care enough to dress the part. Make sure everything from your professional briefcase or purse to your shined up shoes looks the part.
Remember, it’s always better to be too dressed up than dressed down, so iron out the suit and get ready to impress.
Find Common Ground
Make yourself memorable by finding a connection with your interviewer. After the introductions, try to find something in common, whether it’s being a transplant to your city, liking the same sports team or enjoying the same hobby. If there’s no obvious commonality, keep digging as the conversation progresses. Questions like “What do you do in your free time?” or “Where are you from?” will show you’re interested in whose interviewing you, as well as help find a connection to use to your advantage.
In the end, building an emotional bond will keep you relevant and memorable in you interviewer’s mind.
Research the Company
Make sure you’ve done your homework before you step into the interview. It will become obvious whether you have or have not done any digging into the company prior to the appointment, so really take the time to explore its website, social media pages and any other information you can find.
Check out GlassDoor and get some employee impressions, and take advantage of job listing sites to find out about comparable positions and companies.
Come with Questions
Here’s the chance to show off what you know. Based on what you find in your company research, ask questions that will let your interviewer know that you were proactive. Instead of, “How long have you been in business?” you can ask “I saw that you opened in xxxx, how has the company changed over the years?”
This is also a great opportunity to find out what qualities you potential employer values in an employee, how they measure success, and any other questions that may be relevant to the position.
Come with at least five or six questions to ensure you’ll have a few leftover in case any are answered during the conversation. Being prepared will show your interviewer that you’re not stuck in the Millennial mindset and take the interview – and the position – seriously.
Prepare and Practice
Know what you want to say before you sit down. Highlight any past experiences or situations that show your problem solving abilities or bring attention to specific qualities. Try to bring things to the table that aren’t listed on your resume, after all, that’s what got you there in the first place.
One of the most common questions asked at the beginning of an interview is “so, tell me about yourself.” Make sure you have a response ready that sounds natural and professional.
With the right preparation and practice you’ll be able to bypass some of those nerves and focus on making that stellar first impression, and be well on your way to acing your interview.