How can you prepare for a successful job interview?
Preparing for a job interview requires careful consideration of your goals and qualifications for the position and the employer. To achieve this, you should do research on the company and review the job description carefully to understand why you are a good fit. Preparing for an interview may seem intimidating, but there are several steps you can take to prepare yourself for a successful interview, according to iNDEED.com.
Steps to prepare for a job interview
- Carefully examine the job description
During your preparatory work, you should use the job description published by your employer as a guide. A job description is a list of the qualifications, qualities, and background that an employer is looking for in an ideal candidate. The more you can align yourself with these details, the employer will be able to see that you qualify. The job description may also give you ideas about questions the employer might ask during the interview. - Consider the reason for the interview and your qualifications
Before the interview, you should have a good understanding of why you want the job and why you qualify. You should be prepared to explain your interest in this opportunity and why you are the best person for this role. - Research the company and its role
Researching the company you are applying to is an important part of preparing for an interview. Not only will it help provide context for your interview conversations, but it will also help you when preparing thoughtful questions for your interviewees.
Researching the company and role as much as possible gives you an edge over the competition. Not only that but being fully prepared for the interview will help you keep your cool so you can be at your best. - Consider your answers to common interview questions
Although you won’t be able to anticipate every question you will be asked in an interview, there are some common questions you can plan the answers to. You might also consider developing a promotion that quickly describes who you are, what you do and what you want. There are some jobs that may involve testing or evaluation during the interview process. - Practice speaking with your voice and body language
It is important to leave a positive and lasting impression during the interview process. You can do this by practicing a strong, confident voice and open, friendly body language. While these things may come to you naturally, you may also want to spend time doing them with trusted friends or family, or in front of a mirror. Pay special attention to your smile, your handshake, and your footsteps. - Prepare several thoughtful questions
Many employers feel confident about candidates who ask thoughtful questions about the company and the job. You should take time before the interview to prepare several questions that show that you have researched the company and that you are well versed in the position. - Conduct Mock Interviews
Just like public speaking, conducting mock interviews is the best way to reduce anxiety and improve your confidence. Practice can be boring, but repeating the interview will make you feel more comfortable and help you make the right impression.
