Preparing for the Interview

Throughout our job search discussions, we haven’t talked much about what to do when you land an interview. While this can be the most stressful step, it is something you can (and should!) prepare for. And preparation goes a long way.

The interview process will be different for every company/organization. With so many applicants, some companies are holding group interviews. If the position is in a different city, you might be asked for a phone or even a Skype interview. Despite this, there is basic crossover across all types–individual and group interviews, in-person and virtual–and across employment types–full- and part-time positions, internships, consulting jobs, etc.

As soon as you land the interview, start preparing right away:

• Research the organization/company and prepare questions about their operation. Your interviewers will assuredly ask you what YOU know about their company. Make sure you have an answer!
• Know your industry and research typical interview questions about it (especially if the industry is new to you).
• Review basic interview questions. A simple google search will provide you with plenty of tips.
• Review your resume (check for typos/inconsistencies) and print fresh copies.

There are some basic questions that are asked at almost every interview. Your research will provide you with plenty, but here is a sampling to get you started:

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Why are you interested in working with [insert name of company]?
• Why do you want to leave your current company?
• What can you bring to [insert name of company]?
• What are you most proud of that you brought to your most current place of employment?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
• Why should we hire you?

At some point, the interviewer will ask you if YOU have any questions for them. Be prepared for this. Prepare questions ahead of time (it’s okay to come with notes handy). If something wasn’t clear during the interview, be sure to mention it here (it shows you’re paying attention). Again, some questions to get you started:

• What makes [insert name of company] such a great company/place to work?
• In what area could your company need a lift/updating?
• Do you have any concerns about my success at this company/position?
• What are the prospects for growth/advancement?
• Do you offer/provide opportunities for training either internally or externally?
• Can you show me/tell me about previous project this position has worked on?
• Does this position require the candidate to work independently or collaboratively?
• Is this a new position? If not, where did the previous person move on to?

While this is not the most exhaustive list of preparation topics, it’s enough to get you started. Always remember to research, review and prepare whenever you’re meeting a potential employer.

Do you have tips/suggestions that helped you prepare for your last interview?

image via theundercoverrecruiter.com