How to Impress at a Job Interview

As we are all aware, the way people are hired is constantly changing. You may be interviewed via Zoom, Google Hangouts, a simple phone call, or a face to face meeting. Regardless of the format, there are still some fundamental points to observe when interviewing for a new role. Job interviews can be intimidating, but fortunately interviewing techniques have improved. Now they can provide an opportunity to showcase your skills, personality, and also give you a chance to interview the company yourself! 

Remember, just because you are being interviewed, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t also ask questions, learn more about the role and company, and decide whether it’s the job (and company!) for you. To help calm your nerves, here are 5 simple actions to help you feel prepared and ready to get the role you want.   

1. Practice and Prepare

It’s important to not only learn about the company you want to work for, but also to review and refresh your resume allowing you to feel fully confident speaking freely about your career. Explain your own experience, and let the company know why you would like to work for them, what do you find appealing, and why you think it could be the company for you!  Draw on some concrete workplace examples that highlight your skills to support your resume if the interviewer asks!

2. Research the Company

You should be able to find out a lot of information about the company’s history, culture, and further information about the role you are interviewing for. If the company has a blog and a social media presence, those can be useful places to look, too. You want to understand how the company operates, what working for them will look like, and if it is the right company fit for you! 

3. Dress to impress

Appearance can be important during a job interview when you’re making first impressions. You may be required to wear the type of uniform you would wear at work, such as all black or a white shirt and black trousers. Even if the interview is virtual, it’s important to look well put together! 

4. Bring the required documents 

Many companies require you to bring documentation with you. This may be certificates, a copy of your resume, or documents proving your right to work in the United States. It’s important to note what documents the interviewer is expecting to see because it shows you are organized and reliable.  The company will usually email you beforehand with information on what you should provide and indicate whether they will be viewed at the interview or should be emailed in advance.

5. Show off your personality

Most companies are looking for someone with character who’s not afraid to show off their personality. If you are applying for a customer facing role in particular, it’s important you show who you are as a person. When some people get nervous, it often shows in their face and body language, so be sure to keep smiling during the interview. It demonstrates confidence and masks nervousness!   We hope these simple points are helpful and remind you that interviews don’t have to be scary as long as you prepare. Remember– it’s your time to shine!