How Do You Prepare for a Job Interview?

The job interview (or series of them) is the final hurdle in securing a great job. This can be a make-or-break moment; the employer wants to find out whether you're as good in real life as you seem on paper in your resume. In this article we will go over how to prepare for a job interview so that you land that dream job.

Nothing hurts quite like knowing you're qualified for a job, but you lose out on the opportunity because you flubbed the interview. To help you avoid this, we have some great tips and processes we share with all our candidates that will help you achieve your interview goals and present yourself to employers in the best light.

If you have a scheduled interview set up through SkillsetGroup, your recruiter has already done his or her job by selling your skillset to our client. Now it’s your job to sell yourself.

• Make sure you are early to the interview, prepared, and equipped with a positive attitude.
• Take a few minutes to smile, manifest great thoughts, have a laugh to mentally relax yourself for the interview.

Be Prepared for Your Job Interview

Remember to bring the following important items to the interview:

• Planner or notebook with Pens.
• At least three copies of your resume and a list of references.
• Copies of letter(s) of recommendation, licenses, certifications, transcripts, etc.
• If applicable, a Portfolio of work samples (Product design, IT, or Engineering designs)

Check out some more resources on presenting your skills from our administrative and accounting staffing experts:

• Avoiding Common Interview Mistakes in 2023
• What Are the Top Six Advanced Excel Skills Employers Look For?
• How Should You Present Second Language Skills on Your Resume?

Day of the Interview:

• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
• Go by yourself.
• Dress in a manner appropriate to the job.
• Leave your Cell Phone, MP3 player, coffee, soda, or bag at home or in your car.
• Bring your sense of humor and SMILE!

Practicing for Your Job Interview

Please review a list by GlassDoor.com of the 50 most common interview questions by clicking here. Practice answering them with someone else or in front of a mirror. Come prepared with examples that relate to the skills that the employer wants while emphasizing your:

• Core skillsets, and how they can be applied to the job.
• Your willingness to work and ability to be flexible to meet the company’s needs.
• Leadership skills, certifications, and educational background.
• Contributions to the companies and organizations in which you have worked.
• Creativity in solving unique problems.

Figure out in advance how well you qualify for the job by going over each requirement listed in the job description. Make sure you have notes on how your experience, certifications, and education can be applied to the requirements the company is looking for.

Many times, your attire can determine the first impression on whether or not you are a suitable candidate for the position. We always recommend dressing professionally to any interview. In the question of how to prepare for a job interview, make sure you are prepared to dress your best with a clean collared shirt, tie, slacks, or suit with professional shoes. A good first impression is always a major key in portraying yourself as a valuable asset to your future employer’s team.

 

Ask the Right Questions During Your Job Interview

You will be interviewing the prospective employer as well. Our goal and mission is to match the precise right skillset with the exact right employer. Our recruiters want to make sure the opportunity is something that you are genuinely excited about. If you focus on jobs in which you are truly interested in, the interviews will be much more pleasant and flow with ease. You will be genuinely engaged.

Pick questions that will demonstrate your interest in the job and how your skillset can be applied to it. This might include commenting on the news you learned from the company website and then asking a question related to it. Try to ask questions about the job you will be expected to perform such as:

• What are the day-to-day responsibilities associated with the position?
• How will my responsibilities and performance be measured and by whom?
• What is your vision for the future of the company as it continues to grow? In the next 5 years?
• Who is the best employee you have had in the past for this position and why were they the best in your opinion?
• What are you currently having trouble with in finding the right person? (This may be a specific skillset, certification, culture, location, salary, etc..)

Be Confident at Your Job Interview

It’s important to display confidence that conveys your professional approach to the interview. Make sure you do the following:

• Shake hands firmly and warmly.
• Maintain constant eye contact.
• Listen carefully and maintain a great smile.
• Give honest, direct answers.
• Develop answers in your mind before you respond. If you don't understand a question, ask for it to be repeated or clarified.

Leave a Good Impression as a Result of Your Job Interview

A positive end to the interview helps to ensure your success.

• Be courteous and allow the interview to end on time.
• Restate any strengths and experiences that you might not have had the chance to emphasize earlier.
• Mention a particular accomplishment or activity that fits the job.
• If you want the job, say so!
• Find out if there will be additional interviews.
• Ask when the employer plans to make a decision.
• Send a thank you note to your recruiter to forward along to the appropriate individuals.