When you think of preparing for that big job interview, you might only think about what you’re going to say, hoping that, when the time comes, you don’t get tongue-tied, ramble on, or blank on questions. But there’s a lot more you should do to prepare for a job interview besides thinking over your answers. Make sure you do the things listed below before your big day.
Be Honest on Your Resume
Lies have a way of backfiring. The interviewer is going to ask in-depth questions, test you, and grill you. If you lied or even just over-exaggerated on your resume, about your skills, certificates, or experience, you’re probably going to be caught, and then, you’re not going to get the job. Plus, the stress of having to keep lying during the interview is going to stress you out too much for you to ace it. Always be honest. You won’t get a second chance.
Choose Wisely
When you haven’t had a job in a while and you start getting anxious out about being unemployed, you will naturally consider applying for jobs that don’t actually interest you or that you’re not qualified for at all. Not only is this counter-intuitive in general, since you won’t be happy in your new job if you get it, but it’ll make it difficult for you to be able to show off your skills or gain courage during the job interview. Either you’ll care too little about the position to try or you’ll be too under-qualified to talk about anything relevant.
Research, and then Research Some More
One of the most important things you can do before a job interview is research. Even if your interview is the very next day or you got the call to go in just hours before the appointment, you have to find time to research the company, the job scope, the interviewer, the industry—anything that might give you a leg up. Knowledge is power, and the more you know, the more confident you’ll be and the better you’ll be able to communicate, which will impress your interviewer. You’ll be able to sell yourself, tell them how your skills can be of value to the company, and how you can help them achieve their goals.
Dress for Success
You will be judged by the way you look. Don’t go in looking disheveled, with wrinkly, dirty clothes, messy hair, or too-casual clothing. It’s always better to be overdressed. Better yet, if you understand the company’s culture, match your dress code to it. Either way, be clean and look professional. Prepare your outfit ahead of time.
Make a List of Questions
Interviewers expect applicants to ask intelligent questions at the end of the job interview process. Asking questions shows that you’re truly interested in the company and the job. To make sure you don’t act like a deer in the headlights, prepare a list of questions ahead of time. Be unique and stand out from the crowd.
Don’t Forget about Your Materials
You’ll need copies of your resume and your reference list for sure. Maybe you should bring some samples of your work and business cards if you have them. Did the interview ask for school transcripts or other materials? Don’t forget your pen and paper to jot down notes.
Visualize Success
It might seem silly, but practising positive visualization can work. Picture yourself in the interview room—relaxed, comfortable, and ready for anything. Keep thinking about that scene repeatedly. Once you get into the interview room, your confidence will be at an all-time high.
