7 Steps to a Successful Interview
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The interview stage of your job search can be stressful. You have the job in sight, but you don’t have them convinced until you get past the interview. Luckily, there are things you can do to set yourself up for interview success. Here are the seven steps to a successful interview.
Step 1 – Do Your Homework
When preparing for an interview, you need a full understanding of the job description, the organization, the team, the manager, the corporate culture and the industry. Only then will you be capable of selling yourself as the solution to the hiring manager’s pain points.
Step 2 – Position Your Experience
Equally important is a strategic positioning of your work history, experience, and skill set so you are prepared to talk (at length) about why you are right for the job.
Step 3 – Be Professional
Good communication, promptness and a polite attitude are all hallmarks of a professional employee. If you fail to bring professionalism to the interview processes, there is little chance you will make it to the hiring stage.
Step 4 – Dress for Success
They say to dress for the job you want. This is true for an interview. While it is good to dress in a way that will help you fit in with your co-workers, it is better to be overdressed than underdressed for an interview.
Step 5 – Have Confidence
Interview confidence involves a firm handshake, good eye contact, strong posture and an engaging smile. Employers are looking for a candidate who knows they will bring value to the job, so be confident in your worth and pleasant in your interactions.
Step 6 – Ask Good Questions
The interview stage is as much an opportunity for you to ask questions as it is for the hiring manager. In fact, many interviewers fully expect candidates to come prepared with questions that spark good conversations. They show the hiring manager that you’re not only interested in the work, but are thinking critically about your role within the team and how you will best be able to meet their needs.
Step 7 – Follow Up
A strong follow-up is critical to a successful interview. If you are able, leave a handwritten thank-you note with reception as you leave. If not, a thoughtfully written email with a simple thank you is also effective. If you are working with a recruiter, be sure to connect with them before contacting the client directly. If they would rather you send your note through them, that works equally well.
Are you looking for an interview?
Get started on the next phase of your career today by giving the team at USPRO a call or search for a job here. Our recruiters will help you find and prep for your next big interview. Contact us today!
