Why should we hire you? If this question puts you on edge instantly, we understand why. Job interviews are hard and you need to sell yourself to the interviewer without sounding too desperate.
If you are busy preparing for an interview, here are 5 ways to get ready for your next one. With the help of a career transition coach, you are sure to land the job you want and nail the interview.
5 Ways to Prepare for an Interview
It’s not easy preparing for the interview, so here is a step by step guide to help you get through this task.
- Understand the Company
It is important to do a basic study about the company before you apply for a job. Check their website or online forums you may find as part of the job description. Head over to LinkedIn and find posts or people who work there. You will discover what the company needs so you can add value to them and align your skills with their needs.
- Memorize the Job Description
The next most important thing to do is to understand the job description and what is expected from the role. The idea is to relate your experiences to the job role. Look at the difference between these two pitches:
“I am good at making websites and developing them to reach a wide audience.”
“I noticed that your company’s website is a bit outdated and could use some modern touches. I have revamped 12 websites to date for my audience and they have reached a wide audience. Could I do the same for your brand?”
The second option sounds better, right? This is because you are showing right from the get-go exactly what value you can provide to the company and how your experiences and skills fit their needs. Any career transition coach will make you prioritize this as it can help you customize your interview responses.
- Ask the Interviewer Questions
To show that you care about the role, ask questions to the interviewer. Ask them more about the company, what the culture is like, what employees usually do, and what you can do to add value.
Understand that the job interview is flowing in two directions – one from the interviewer to you and the other from you to them. Not only is the interviewer checking if you would suit their role, you are also checking if the job is suitable for you.
Both parties are making decisions, so sit with your career change coach and frame polite questions to ask the person interviewing you. It also works to speak to other people working at the company or in roles similar to yours. This gives you a peek into the job you are applying for.
- Dress for the Occasion
Let’s say you are the person interviewing people for the job. Would you be impressed when you see someone strolling in wearing jeans and a tshirt or a suit and tie? Well, it depends on the job role you are hiring for, doesn’t it?
If it is a laidback role like a digital marketing executive, you would be okay with a business casual look. But if it is for a personal assistant or team manager’s role, you would expect the person to dress a bit more seriously.
Your first impressions will be influenced greatly by what you wear. It is always better to dress for the role so that your interviewer can see you already set in the company. They can see you blend in to the culture and requirements right when you walk in the door.
- Practice Good Body Language
Check your facial expressions and posture before you enter the meeting. Yes, these factors can affect the interview results, too. You need to maintain good eye contact and offer a firm handshake the moment you enter the meeting room. Sit up straight while speaking and ensure you stick to the questions asked to you without getting flustered.
Conclusion
You are now equipped to impress your potential employer and increase your chances of landing that dream job. Remember, preparation is the key to confidence and a career transition coach can help you prepare for success in any job interview. Good luck!
