By putting your best self forward, you show potential employers what an asset you would be to their team and to their company. Nail the interview process with these five tips for your first job interview.
Do Your Research
It pays to be prepared—sometimes literally. Before you head into the interview, make sure you do some research on the company and the overall industry. Find out what the company does and how it does it. What are their key values? What sets them apart from their competitors?
When you show up with a general knowledge of what you’re applying for, carrying a conversation and asking informed questions about the job will be easier.
Speaking of questions, be sure to come prepared with a few. This will show your interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in the job and the company.
Prepare Answers
Just as you should come with questions for you interviewer, you should also prepare some answers ahead of time. You’ll answer several standard questions in almost every interview.
Look up a few example questions and practice your answers, being sure to rehearse them out loud. It might feel silly, but it will help you speak clearly and knowledgeably when you’re answering these questions in the actual interview.
Make a Good First Impression
One of the simplest tips for your first job interview is to make a good first impression. Make sure you show up a little early to the interview. Dress professionally—no matter what job you’re interviewing for—and introduce yourself to your interviewers with a firm handshake.
Be polite and enthusiastic throughout the entire process. Be confident, even if you’re nervous. Your first interview is a big deal, but if you stay calm and collected throughout, you’re sure to make a lasting impression on your interviewers.
Address Concerns
Just as you should know what qualities set you apart from your peers, you should also know what kinds of concerns your potential employers may have. Don’t let these concerns or complications discourage you, but prepare for them so that you’ll know how to address them in the interview.
For example, if you have no experience in this kind of job, bring up relevant qualities or lessons you’ve gained from unrelated jobs, or talk about how you’re a fast and dedicated learner. Being honest about your experiences is also important.
other valuable tips:
Dress & Poise: How to Present Your Best Self in a Job Interview
If your interviewer asks about any incidents that might come up in a background check, don’t lie about them. Getting a job when you have a criminal history, such as if you have a DUI on record, is still possible. Remember that you got this interview for a reason, and you have the chance to put your best foot forward and create a positive impression.
Anticipate the Next Step
Make sure you end your interview on a positive note. Make a point of asking about the next step in the process and what you can do in the meantime. Most companies will ask you to wait for them to contact you, but asking shows initiative and reinforces your commitment to the position.
If you don’t already have it, ask for contact information from all your interviewers before you leave. Send a follow-up e-mail in the next day or so to thank them for their time and to reiterate your interest in the company.
Image Credit: first job interview by Pixabay
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