How to Prepare for an Interview: The interview is an important aspect to focus on in the job search process. Your CV and cover letter lay the groundwork of your application and secure you the interview. They give you a chance to shine and impress your potential employer.
Once you have received an interview call, you need to start your interview preparations. Thorough preparation will increase your confidence and help you improve your performance and job prospects. Lack of proper preparation on the other hand may lead to poor results.
If you have been offered an interview, the potential employer views you as hireable on paper, and now wants to meet you in person to further evaluate your qualifications and experience, and assess your personality, motivation, and communication/interpersonal skills.
You need to convey a good sense of who you are and what you have to offer, and discover if the job and organization meet your values, interests and skills.
Interview Preparation
1. Know yourself:
Review the CV and cover letter you sent for this particular job. Consider how you want to convey this information verbally and think of specific examples from your past experiences which highlight your skills, qualifications and achievements.
2. Research:
Find information about the potential employer and the position you have applied for. Use the Internet to find current information. A good research reflects well on your enthusiasm and the information you gain from relevant websites will help you prepare questions for the employer and give you a good sense of salary levels and working conditions.
3. Practice:
Anticipate interview questions. In addition, prepare and practice answers to possible questions. You can practice with a friend to get feedback on your verbal and non-verbal communication skills. Formulate a list of intelligent questions to ask during your interview.
4. Contact your references:
Reconnect with your references during the job search process so that they know what positions you are applying for and are aware they may be contacted in the near future.
5. Interview date:
Dress for success and bring along any documents or information you may need, such as extra copies of your CV and references. Arrive fifteen minutes prior to the interview and be friendly, respectful and positive with everyone you meet.
6. Follow-up:
After the interview, your work is not quite finished. You will miss a valuable opportunity by failing to follow up with an organization after the interview. Follow up with the interviewers and inquire about the status of your application if you have not heard from them within the agreed time frame.
How to Prepare for an Interview - Additional Tips
- Remember your interviewer's name and title.
- Ensure you know the employer’s location.
Go on a practice run so that you know how to get there and much time you need to get there...