How to Be Successful in Job Interviews

How to Be Successful in Job Interviews

By Brandon Kish

How am I going to get this job? How am I going to succeed in the interview? These are common questions many people ask, including me. It is perfectly natural to be nervous before a job interview because it is unpredictable what can happen. However, the important thing is to be prepared. There is a lot that needs to take place before interview day. The better prepared you are, the less nervous and more successful you will be.

Here are some tips to succeed in your next job interview:

1. Research Yourself

Think of going into the interview as an audition. You want to show them why you are better than the other candidates. Think about your skills and what you offer that is different from others. Know about your strengths and weaknesses. This shows that you are in tune with yourself and not trying to project perfection. Be able to give clear examples of both; this demonstrates that you understand yourself.

Your personality is something very attractive about you. Be sure to explain why you are interested in this position and industry.

2. Have Questions Prepared

Once the interviewers have asked their questions, you are most likely going to be asked if you have any. Never say that you don’t. That immediately looks like you are not interested in the position. One is not enough, and you don’t want too many. You should have about three questions written down. Think from their perspective too. Would you rather hire someone who keeps showing interest, or someone who just wants to get out of there as fast as possible? They want someone who they feel will be best for their organization’s future success.

Here are some examples:

1. What would a typical working day be like?
2. Who will the new employee be reporting to?
3. What immediate projects or tasks would I be working on?

To practice, anticipate the questions that they may ask you. Research online commonly asked questions about the job position you’re applying for. Preparing your answers will help calm your nerves and give you more control over your answers.

3. Practice

You’re acting. Your big role is to go into that interview and demonstrate that you are the best choice for the job.

Search online for common questions that are asked for your position in job interviews. Then you can even look online for answers for those jobs. Be sure to tailor the answers to your own skills, experience, and the job posting itself.

You want to sound positive but also calm. Your lines do not have to be 100 percent rehearsed. There will potentially be unexpected questions in the interview. Think of it like professional sports. Teams practice before a game, but nothing is like being put into the battle. It is unpredictable, but being prepared will reduce your chances of something negative happening.

4. Plan Your Transportation

You probably hear it all the time: “Don’t be late.” But really, please, don’t be late. That automatically reduces your chances to a minimum of getting the job. Be sure to arrive early. You should perform a dry run; drive, get a ride, or take transportation, etc., to the location at approximately the same time as the interview. This way you know what to expect. You should arrive early to demonstrate that you respect the interviewer’s time and that you are professional. Check for parking and alternative parking locations. You don’t want to show up and become late.

5. Body Language

Slouched shoulders, no smile, and a quiet voice. Wow, it sounds like that person is about to jump for joy. They are so excited for their interview. Not. Remember it like you’re playing a character. You get what you put out. You want to demonstrate to the interviewer and organization that you are happy about potentially working with them. It is important to have open palms and appear receptive. Show those pearly whites as well by smiling. Make them feel good in your presence. The last thing they want is someone who doesn’t bring a positive attitude to the workplace. Remember, they are trying to find someone who, yes, does a good job, but also contributes to the team setting in a professional but positive manner. Keep those arms uncrossed and absolutely no fidgeting. Those show a sense of nervousness or fright. Keep that posture good, as this portrays confidence. If you slouch in your chair, then you’re going to look uninterested and unmotivated.

6. After the Interview

Please remember that the interview doesn’t end when you leave the office. In fact, there are a few more details to keep in mind. First, remember the names of the people you were interviewed by, and if possible, get their email addresses. Later that day, you should send them a thank-you email. This displays professionalism and appreciation for the opportunity.

Your email should:

1. Be individualized to the interviewer. My gosh, please put the person’s name. Don’t put “Hiring Manager.” If you’re writing a birthday card to your in-law, you don’t write “Happy Birthday Father-in-Law”; you write their name.
2. Re-emphasize your interest in the position. Show them how you want to work for them. They want to see someone who would enjoy it, not someone passive about it.
3. Thank them. You wouldn’t believe how often people forget to do this and instead tell them that they are awaiting their call. This person took the time to interview you out of their busy schedule. Please say the words “Thank You” in the email.

You are going against other candidates for positions, so you want to demonstrate why you are the best choice. Nothing is guaranteed. You may have a great interview and not get the job. But you never know what can happen next. Companies sometimes are so pleased with an interview that they might let you know that they have you in mind for another position. I have had this even happen with me. It is better to have a job than to not have a job. Overall, this experience will also allow you to succeed in future interviews because it gives you great practice. Best of luck!

Brandon Kish is an author and administrative assistant in an employment services program. With a background in public relations and communications, he is passionate about helping people achieve their goals and believes in the power of staying positive.