Applying for a job can be a daunting task, and the interview is the most intimidating part of the process. An interview is your last chance to prove that you’re the right fit for the position, and it’s also the first time you’ll come face to face with your prospective employer. Many applicants may not even reach the interview stage, as Inc. reports that every corporate position receives an average of 250 applications and of those 250 only four to six applicants will reach the interview process. Thus, you need to make the most of the opportunity and ensure that you increase your chances of getting that job offer. If you’re in the process of preparing for your own interview, here are a couple of ways to do it.
Research the Company
One thing that will make your interview stand out among the rest is research, research, research. According to Post University’s post on ‘5 Reasons Why You Need to Research Before Your Interview’ states that it demonstrates your enthusiasm for the career field and the company. It also allows you to describe the ways that you’ll be an asset to the company in line with their mission and vision. Remember, your fellow candidates may also be highly qualified for the position, so if you want to stand out, proving your enthusiasm and preparedness is essential.
Practice
An interview is the best chance you have of making a good impression and sealing the deal when it comes to a job offer, so you need to ensure that you’re prepared for it. While it might be tempting to just waltz in and let your resume speak for itself, that can actually be detrimental to your chances. Fortune favors a prepared mind, so you should take the opportunity to practice before showing up to the interview. Focus on the way you hold yourself, your diction, and practice responses to common interview questions, such as those collected by the Muse.
Communicate Effectively
Your interview is when you should put your best foot forward, so making sure that you communicate well and effectively is essential. Aviation Job Net details that ‘your professional image relates directly to the clarity of your message’ and describes tips and tricks to help facilitate easier communication between you and your prospective employer. Remember, you’ll need to be able to give off the impression that you’ll be an asset to the company. A key part of that is making sure that your messages come across well.
Be Punctual
Nothing kills your chances for a job worse than showing up for an interview late and under-prepared. The period before the interview is an essential time for you to collect and prepare yourself, and may be equally important as the interview itself. To avoid showing up in a rush, prepare at least 30-minutes to an hour of extra travel time before your interview. The extra time will give you a chance to ease slowly into your interview persona, and shows the company that you’re willing to go the extra mile for this job.
