Prepare for Your Best Interview in 5 Steps
5 Steps to Prepare for Your Best Interview
You’ve landed an interview. (Congrats!) Although there are many different types of interviews (job, scholarship, promotion, athletic) they can all be boiled down to the same root… You’re looking to take that next step.
List of 5 Steps
- Prepare 5 Questions
- Know What’s On Your Resume.. Don’t Read It!
- Maintain Good Posture
- Know The Type Of Interview You’ll Be On
- Define Three Stories Of Yourself
1. Prepare 5 Questions
So, at the end of the interview, the interviewer asks you… “Do you have any questions?” The worst possible answer you could have is “No, I think you covered it all!” Although it might seem like that makes you sound informed and educated, it actually makes you seem like you are uninterested, didn’t pay attention during the interview, or didn’t do your homework.
Have at least five questions prepared in case a few are already answered during the interview. Coming with questions proves you are prepared & interested.
2. Know What’s On Your Resume
Always bring copies of your resume, but not for yourself. (You should already know what is on there.) Bring extras to give to your interviewer(s), and when questioned about certain aspects of your resume, you shouldn’t have to look at it to refresh your memory of your life experiences. Also, ensure that your resume is in top shape.
3. Maintain Good Posture
Maintain good posture, but also ensure your back is in contact with the back of the seat. Sitting so far off the seat comes across as very rigid and uncomfortable. (Have you ever caught a glimpse of someone sitting a mile away from the back of their chair, just hanging off the front of the seat? It’s awkward for everyone.)
(Courtesy: DVIDS)
4. Know The Type Of Interview You’ll Be On
Don’t ever assume the type of interview you will be going on. There are many types, including one-on-one interviews, group interviews, behavioral interviews, Skype interviews, and phone interviews, to name a few. Ask the person scheduling your interview what type it will be, so you can prepare accordingly.
If it is a group interview, ask the names of the other interviewers so you can research each one you will come into contact with.
5. Define Three Stories Of Yourself
Instead of wasting time preparing 20 answers to 20 possible interview questions, go through your resume and choose three work experiences or accomplishments with concrete results. Among these stories, you should touch on at least once on your strengths and weaknesses.
These stories should be versatile enough to expand on in multiple interview question situations. Also, pick stories that are interesting! That way, you don’t have to worry about memorizing, and most likely your interviewer will be more engaged.
(Featured Image Courtesy: DVIDS)
