You Got the Interview - Now What?

 

1) Do your research

 

Google is your friend - use it!  You don't need to be a historian about the company but know what they do, who their customers are, their mission/vision, size, etc..  Glassdoor is also a good resource for researching companies as well as Indeed. Be prepared to answer the question - "So, what do you know about us?"  It is shocking how many people don't do this.  

 

2) Review the job posting

 

Remind yourself of the details of the posting.  What are they looking for in a candidate and how do you match up?  Understand where you meet or exceed the requirements and where you fall a little short.  It is ok that you don't meet all the requirements but be able to address any concerns when asked.

 

3) Review your resume 

 

It is your resume and your history, but when the pressure of an interview hits, you may forget everything you have accomplished. Review your resume to help you be more comfortable and better prepared to answer questions about dates, skills, and accomplishments.

 

4) Know where you are going

 

Your phone can tell you where to go, but when interviewing, it is always a good idea to do a "practice run" to make sure you have no issues or surprises when you attend your interview.  Interviews are stressful enough and if you are stressed about being lost, you may not bring your best to the interview.

 

5) Figure out what to wear

 

It doesn't matter which job you are interviewing for - dress your best!  It never hurts to dress to impress.  Candidates come to interviews in shorts and sneakers.  That shows they don't really care and provides some insight into how seriously they are going to take the job.  You don't have to spend a lot of money or wear designer clothes to get the job, but be thoughtful and wear something appropriate.  Use an iron and common sense when planning your wardrobe for the day!

 

6) Figure out what to bring

 

Aside from your awesome personality and a firm handshake, bring some extra copies of your resume, a notebook, a pen so you can take notes, a list of references, and the questions you prepared (yes - you should prepare questions).

 

You are going to be asked if you have any questions - don't say "nope."  Have some questions prepared (use the research you have done). If you are quick on your feet, ask questions based on the interview.  You don't want to ask an hour's worth of questions, but be able to ask a few thoughtful ones.

 

What else....

 

• Be on time!

• Be aware of what is out there on social media.  You may not be able to change it, but can address it if necessary.

• Be polite to everyone you meet, smile and act professionally.  It doesn't matter if you are interviewing for an entry level production laborer job or an executive position at a fortune 500 company - be professional, be aware of your surroundings, and don't be on your phone.

• Follow up after the interview.  Make sure you have contact information for everyone you interviewed with and send a note promptly. It shows you care and can make the difference in a tight race!  

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