Are You Ready for Your Next Interview?

The biggest mistakes in interviewing is not being fully prepared. The more you prepare and practice - the better you are at presenting yourself and experience.  You should always allow time to fully prepare for an interview. 

Remember, interviewing is a skill; as with all skills, preparation and practice only strengthens the quality of that skill. Preparation can make the difference between getting an offer and getting rejected. Here are a few helpful tips to help you prepare for your next interview:

Self-Introduction: Practice marketing yourself by reassessing current skills, talents, abilities, strengths, weaknesses, interests, and work values. Be able to provide examples of achievements and notable successes.         

Maintaining an Updated Resume:  Always be sure your resume is up to date and is an accurate depiction of your skills, experience, and accomplishments.  Review it thoroughly and know everything that's on it - be prepared to discuss anything on your resume.  Also be sure to properly format your resume (font, indentations, alignment, etc.) so it represents you in a professional manner.

Research the Company and Job: Have an understanding of position by reviewing the job description.  Google the organization and have an understanding of the company and its competitors.

Be Able to Answer the "Basic Interview Questions"

• Why are you interested in this company?
• Why are you interested in this position?
• What is your greatest strength?
• What is your greatest weakness?
• How does your experience relate to this position?

Be Prepared with Relevant Questions:  Your questions should reflect your research on the company and understanding of the position. 

Final preparations: Select appropriate attire for the interview day. Know the dress code of the company for which you are interviewing and dress a notch above. 

Know the location of your interview: Plan to arrive at the designated office 15 minutes in advance. Depending on the time of travel; don’t forget to allow extra time for traffic and any parking issues.

Bring Extra Copies of Your Resume: Always a good idea to bring a notebook as well for taking notes.  

Every interview is a learning experience - the observations throughout the preparation and actual interview process is useful for your preparation for your next interview.  The best way to prepare is to improve, enhance, develop, or revise your answers and/or delivery. 

Best of luck in your next Job interview!