Even though we all have to go through them when we want a job, the interviews that precede that job are scary things. They make us worried and nervous, even when we are absolute experts in the field and know that we could do the job with no problems at all. There is something about sitting across from someone and answering questions that is heart-poundingly frightening. This is especially true when the job is one that we really want.
There are ways that this problem can be diminished, if not solved altogether. The more prepared you can be, the less nervous you will be, and the better you will feel. Here are some ways to get ready for your job interview and do a good job.
Research
Something that will help you in a number of different ways is research. By learning as much as you can about the company you are hoping to work for, you will understand more about what it stands for, where it is heading, how it began, and what it is like to work there.
Start by looking online to read the company website. You’ll find a lot of information here, and when you learn the facts about them, you will feel calmer in an interview knowing that should you be asked anything about the business you will have the answer.
You can also look at reviews and find out what people think of the company in general. Although this may not help you to answer questions in the interview itself, it will give you a good overview of how the company works, and even whether you definitely want to work there.
Read Your Resume
You will have spent a good deal of time writing your resume and cover letter. You probably looked at lots of CV examples, and you may have written many different drafts. However, after sending it off to a prospective employee, did you look at it again? If not, checking it over before your job interview is a good idea.
Look through your resume and make sure you know it by heart. It’s easy to forget some skill or qualification in the middle of an intense interview situation. Also, spot if there are any gaps in your work history which your interviewer might pick up on. Have an answer ready, such as telling them you took time out to have children, or you went traveling, or you have been studying. Be truthful at all times; if you have gaps because you could find a job at that time, say so. Honesty is hugely vital and will go a long way.
Prepare Questions
One of the most important parts of any interview is the end when the interviewer asks you if you have any questions. This is not just politeness; this is part of the interview process. Having pre-prepared questions ready just in case nothing else has come to you during the interview will help you a lot, and it will save you from having to sit in silence as you think of something to ask or saying that you have no questions.
Always ask a question. If you say no, you are giving the impression that you think you know everything, or that you’re not interested, and neither of these things will look good in an interview.