Applying for a job is a long process, from the beginning in which you write an eye-catching resume to the end when you sign your new contract. If you’ve made it through the initial stages and have been asked to come in for an interview, congratulations on getting shortlisted for a job in your dream company! The challenges are not over yet, however, and now is the time to prepare. Review the company and the job description as well as your individual and unique selling points.
When you step into the office for your first interview, you should already have a good foundation of information on which you can build your talking points. Apart from just conversation, the employer is probing you and the stakes are high, so you have a lot to cover. Here are the best strategies for you to prepare for your next interview.
Practice out loud
You may have to describe your key project, last role, or the arc of your career whenever you attend an interview. Though you know all of the details in your head, you may not be able to find the right words while speaking out loud. Even if you write it down, don’t read it aloud during your interview, instead using the words as a guide to help you remember what you have planned to say.
Before you head into the interview, practice what you need to say out loud. This is the only way to speak concisely, engagingly, and fluidly about yourself, your skills, and all other complex formation covered in an interview. It will also help ease your nerves to know that you have already prepared for the questions and know just what to say.
Prioritize examples
Apart from practicing answers to the typical interview questions, prioritize specific examples to share rather than specific answers. Select the best examples of your work in advance. You can showcase different skills and expertise you have displayed while handling each project, and the roles where you made a contribution and a measurable win. Each project can define your strengths, your people-skills, your analytical skills, and more. Rehearse your answers with these examples built in, and answer cleverly when asked about yourself.
Ask the right questions to the right people
Try to ask people relevant questions that they will be able to answer. Sometimes, a human resources representative might not know the answers regarding your day-to-day specifics or long-term strategy for any one department. You can ask these questions to the business groups concerned with that department. You will get better information when you align your questions with people who are concerned with those answers.
Practice in performance conditions
Practice all that you have to say in as close to a real-life interview environment as possible. This means that you should try to practice in your interview attire, in an office, with a stranger or acquaintance who will be strict with you. Part of interview practice is practicing the discomfort, nervousness, and anxiety that affects your performance. Try to overcome these during your practice to get accustomed to them during the real interview. Make sure you develop a special routine for the big day. Be physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared. With these tips, you will be sure to ace your big interview.
