HOW TO ACE YOUR INTERVIEW

An interview is a structured discussion in which one party asks questions and the other response. The term “interview” is frequently used to define a one-on-one conversation between an interviewer and an interviewee. Face-to-face, telephone, video, and assessment centre interviews are examples of several forms of employment interviews. However, some people really put pressure on interviews and make it a burden.  A study from JDP (a platform of the screening industry) reports that applicants spend up to seven hours researching the company before their interview. Many candidates (64%) also research their interviewer. Because interviewing is often stressful, 70% of those surveyed practice their responses out loud, and 62% prepare anecdotes to share with the interviewer. Let’s take a look at how to prepare for an interview:

1. 1. Examine the job description thoroughly. Use the employer’s advertised job description as guidance during your preparation. The job description lists the qualifications, qualities, and experience that the employer seeks in an applicant. The more you can match yourself with these aspects, the more qualified you appear to the company. The job description may also provide you with ideas for questions to ask the company during the interview.
   2. Analyze the company and its role. Researching the company you’re applying to is a crucial aspect of interview preparation. It will not only help you prepare intelligent questions for your interviewers, but it will also help you create the context for your interview sessions. Furthermore, properly preparing for an interview will encourage you in being relaxed and delivering at your best. Before you go into your interview, there are a few things you should know: Look into the product or service, investigate the position and the corporate culture.
   3. Interviewing Practice. Take the time to practice answering the questions that will most likely be asked during your interview. This will also help to calm your anxieties because you won’t be fumbling for an answer in the middle of an interview. You can also write down and practice responses to typical interview questions with a trusted friend, possibly even recording and evaluating your performance.
   4. Prepare your interview attire. The first impression, regardless of the type of job you’re interviewing for, should be great. Dress accordingly in business attire for a professional position interview. If you have any questions about the dress code, ask before going to the interview. It’s important to remember that being too formal is better than being too casual. Only wear a casual dress if you’re positive it’ll be suitable; if in doubt, stick to professional work attire. Make sure your clothing is ironed and your shoes are clean. 
   5. Follow up after the interview. As your job interview comes to an end, find out when you’ll hear the results – and thank the interviewer for giving you the opportunity to attend. When writing a follow-up note that you will send to the company by email, consider the following steps: Mention the precise job title and thank your interviewer in the opening paragraph. Note the company’s name, as well as a conversation point and/or aim that seemed particularly relevant to the person you spoke with, in the second paragraph. Make a connection between that point and your own experiences and interests. Invite them to ask you any additional questions in the final paragraph, and end by expressing you’re looking forward to hearing from them.

As you’re preparing for the interview, there are other important things you also need to remember, such as being punctual, being polite, and being professional with any staff you meet before or after the interview. Remember to smile frequently and maintain eye contact, answer all questions clearly and concisely, evidencing your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements.

We hope this preparation we share with you can help you ace your interview, Good Luck!

References:

Doyle, A. (2022, February 3). How To Prepare for a Job Interview. The Balance Careers. https://www.thebalancecareers.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-job-interview-2061361#toc-get-your-interview-clothes-ready

Keiling, H. (2021). How To Prepare for an Interview. Indeed Career Guide. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/how-to-prepare-for-an-interview

Swain, R. (2021). How to prepare for an interview | Prospects.ac.uk. Prospects. https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interview-tips/how-to-prepare-for-an-interview