Focus on using the vocabulary that shows up on the company’s website. If you’re applying for a serving job at a “farm-to-table” restaurant, you should probably be familiar with what that means. If you’re applying to work as an editor with a holistic magazine, you need to do some research into holistic medicine. Knowing your interviewer’s name and some details about that person’s role in the company can help you have a more conversational dialogue during your interview, which often leads to the interviewer forming a more positive impression.
What do you know about this company? Why are you a good fit for this company? What do you bring to a team? Describe a time when you overcame a challenge at work.
Good answers to these question are sometimes couched in self-praise: “I’m very organized when it comes to my work and my schedule, but you’d never know it if you saw my desk” is a good answer. Likewise, “I tend to take on responsibilities but sometimes forget to ask questions when I need help” can be honest and effective. If you’re applying for a leadership position, it’s important to emphasize your leadership qualities and your self-reliance. A good strength might be, “I’m good at communicating my vision to people and getting others excited about a common goal. " A good weakness might be, “I have to remember to slow down and take on one project at a time. Sometimes I want to do too much. " If you’re applying for an entry-level position, the interviewer won’t be looking for you to prove leadership credentials. A good strength might be, “I follow directions extremely well and I’m a fast learner. If I don’t know how to do something, I’m always keen to learn and improve, so I won’t have to ask twice. " A good weakness might be, “I’m not always the best idea person, I’m mostly happy to help other people implement their ideas. "
How do you like working here? What does someone need to be successful at this company? Who will I be working with most closely? What do the day-to-day operations consist of? Is there room for growth with this company? What’s the turnover like for this position?
It’s also important to familiarize yourself intimately with your resume, CV, and other application materials. It can look suspicious if you have trouble recalling content from your resume, so you want to make sure all names, dates, and described responsibilities are clear. Be sure to use the space on your resume to highlight your skills and experiences rather than including a list of references—the hiring team will request references once you get to the final stages of an interview process.
In most cases dark-colored suits are appropriate for interviews, unless you are interviewing for a job with a very casual dress code, in which case dress pants and a clean, collared shirt are appropriate.
Keep in mind though, while it’s important to show up on time, showing up too early can be frustrating for potential employers. If they told you to be there at a specific time, that means they want you there at that time, not 30 minutes before. If you want to make a good impression, follow instructions specifically. Stay busy as you wait, writing notes or reviewing the job description and company information. Keep documents and materials in your left hand so you are prepared to get up and shake hands as soon as the interviewer comes out to greet you.
Try pairing this with a positive affirmation, like, “I’m absolutely qualified for this position, and I just need to show them that!”
Interviewers expect you to be nervous. Don’t worry about saying so. It might help to get it out of the way and get to know your interviewer on a more personal level, which can help you to stand out. Don’t be afraid of small talk.
A great interviewing trick is to look at the bridge of the interviewers’ nose, between the eyes. They will have no idea you aren’t making eye contact and it will help you relax a little. Try it with a friend, you will be amazed.
When you’re asked a question, you don’t need to have an immediate answer. In fact, it can be a turn off for an interviewer to feel as if you’ve given no thought whatsoever to a complicated question. Slow down and think about it. Pause, say, “That’s a great question, let me think about a good answer. "
Don’t lie about some things. Being willing to do what’s necessary for the position doesn’t mean that you should stretch your experiences or tell fibs that’ll get you outed the first day on the job. If you’ve never cooked a meal in your life, you shouldn’t tell the kitchen manager you’re a great cook.
An interview isn’t an interrogation or an argument. It’s a conversation. Participate in it. When the interviewer is talking, pay close attention and listen to what they are saying, listen, and respond honestly. Some interviewees are thrown when interviewers don’t instantly launch into a series of questionnaire-style questions.
Note-taking makes you appear engaged and well-organized. It also helps you remember important details and names, which can be useful later in the interview, or when you are making follow-up contact. Be careful to only take brief notes when necessary to take any at all, since extensive note-taking can be distracting.
Summarize important details of the interview, using your notes to refresh your memory. Make sure to thank the interviewer for the opportunity, and mention that you look forward to hearing from the company soon.
Sometimes, you’ll be prompted to provide a base salary requirement for the job. The best answer for this is that you’re willing to work for the lower end of the average salaries for your position. Express that you really want the job and that you’ll be fine with what’s being offered in the legal limit.
If you’re asked why you’re leaving your current job, say something positive. “I’m looking for more out of my work environment and I’m excited about getting a fresh start. To me, this looks like a great place to do it. "
Likewise, having a few drinks to soothe tense nerves should always be avoided. You want to be sharp and on point, not sloppy. Interviewers will expect you to be nervous. It’s a job interview.
