how to ace a job interview essay

How to ace a job interview

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Job interviews are considered by many as one of the stressful experiences in their lives. However, this need not always be the case. There are many individuals who have not only mastered the art of interviewing but have also come to enjoy interviews. This is important because learning how to navigate job interviews helps in directing careers, finding good jobs and ensuring job success and satisfaction. Interviewees should always keep in mind that interviewers always look for four things: ability to perform in the job, their motivation, compatibility with the organization, and self-confidence. People who are able to demonstrate these traits have a high chance of landing the job. Also, interviewees should research on the company they are interviewing with, arrive for the interview early enough so that they can freshen up, and send a thank-you note to the interviewer. Finally, they should always learn from the interview experience.

Next to public speaking, most people think that enduring a job interview is one of the most stressful human experiences.

I wouldn't quibble with that. However, a lot of people not only manage to master the art of effective interviewing as they go about job searches, but actually grow to enjoy the interview experience.

Good thing! Job interviews are something we all have to deal with from time to time in our careers. So, it pays to know how to handle yourself effectively when you're sitting across the desk from a prospective employer. Indeed, knowing how to navigate the terrain of job interviews can pay off big time for your career, land you a better job than the one you initially interview for, and position you for the job success and satisfaction you deserve.

How do you ace a job interview? Here are some tips.

Recognize that when you interview for a job, employers are looking for evidence of four things: your ability to do the job, your motivation, your compatibility with the rest of the organization, and your self-confidence. If you understand how all those things play into an interviewer's questions (and an employer's hiring decisions), you'll have a better chance of getting hired.

Often the first thing an employer wants to know is, "Will you fit in?" Presuming a company has seen your resume ahead of time and invited you for an interview, it may assume you have certain skills. Now they want to know, "Will you be compatible with everyone else that works here?"

Fitting in is a real hot button for employers. That's because it's expensive to go through the rehiring process if someone doesn't work out.

Along with determining compatibility, employers want to know that you're motivated to do a job. And, they want to know why you want to work for their organization. So be ready with career highlights that illustrate why hiring you would be a good decision for the organization. Showcase your talents as an instructional designer for example, or tell the interviewer about the process improvement efforts you've put in place in your current job that ensure continuous refinement of training courses. Concise oral vignettes like these can make a great impression on interviewers.

Throughout the interview, breathe deeply, speak slowly, and focus on projecting yourself confidently. This is important. Employers want to see self-confidence in job seekers. A lot of job seekers are too modest. They downplay their accomplishments. Don't embellish or exaggerate, but don't be a shrinking violet either. Rehearse ahead of time the answers to key questions that you expect to be asked, especially that all-time favorite: "Tell me about yourself."

Some other points to keep in mind:

Before the interview, do some research on the company you're interviewing with. That will enable you to demonstrate knowledge of the company when you meet the interviewer. It may also prompt questions that you'll want to get answers to, even as questions are being asked of you.

There are lots of research options. You can tap into the Internet and pull down everything from company profiles to Dun and Bradstreet financial reports. You can talk to friends or co-workers that may know something about the organization. And don't forget to watch the paper for late-breaking developments about the company. (If you read in the paper the day of your interview that your prospective employer is about to file Chapter 11, you may want to think twice about working there!)

Arrive for the interview early enough to go to the restroom to check yourself out. The last thing you want is to arrive for your interview beaded with sweat, having just sprinted there from the subway stop two blocks away.

Once in the interview, concentrate on making a pleasant and strong first impression. Eighty percent of the first impression an interviewer gets of you is visual - and it's formed in the first two minutes of the meeting! So, men, wear a well-made suit, crisply starched white or blue shirt, and polished shoes. Women, you can get away with more color than men, but dress conservatively in dresses, or jacket and skirt combinations. Wearing a colorful scarf is a good way to weave in color, but keep jewelry to a minimum.

As you answer questions, be sure to emphasize as often as you can the reasons why your skills, background, and experience make you a good fit for the job that you're interviewing for.

After the interview, immediately send a thank-you note to the interviewer. This is a critical point of interview etiquette. Many job candidates eliminate themselves from competition for a job because they don't do this.

Finally, learn from every job interview you have. Don't be hard on yourself if things don't go your way. Even job interviews that don't go well can be great learning experiences. And in my own life, I can look back on interviews where I'm glad I didn't get the job!

If you'd like more information on how to do well in interviews, I recommend the book, Go Hire Yourself an Employer by Richard Irish (Doubleday/Anchor).

Richard Koonce is a speaker, a career coach, and the author of Career Power! 12 Winning Habits To Get You From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be (AMACOM, 1994). Phone 703/536-8568; e-mail [email protected].

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How To Ace a Job Interview: 7 Research-Backed Tips

1) Be Similar to The Interviewer

“Be yourself” can actually be a problem.

If you want to know how to ace a job interview it’s important to note that study after study shows the key to being liked and being more influential is similarity.

Research shows you can take advantage of this by researching the interviewer and coming across as similar to them :

After carefully transcribing and analyzing her interviews and field notes from observations in the firm, Rivera determined that, by the time a candidate had made it through the relevant resume screenings and landed an interview, her evaluation was not necessarily based on “maximizing skill—finding the person who was absolutely best at the soft or the hard dimensions of the job,” as Rivera puts it. Rather, the most common mechanism by which a candidate was evaluated was her similarity to her interviewer.

No lies are necessary. Think attitude.

Do they come across as aggressive and hard-charging or calm and passive? Do they come across as cultured or school of hard knocks?

2) Timing Matters

You might not have much control over this but make an effort to manipulate the timing to your advantage.

Research shows interviews go better when:

• They’re earlier in the day .
• The weather is good .
• And when you’re not interviewed on the same day as your strongest competition .

3) Frame the Conversation

First impressions matter even more than you think . And once they’re set, they are very hard to resist . Mastering first impressions is a key part of learning how to ace a job interview.

Research shows they’re the most important part of any job interview:

By careful analysis, the researchers found that all of these factors influenced the final interview ratings, and that this was due to the way they shaped first impressions: after those first few minutes, there was little extra influence of these qualities across the rest of the interview.

Optimize first impressions from the outset by framing the conversation with a few well-rehearsed sentences regarding how you want to be perceived. This will end up being the structure the other person forms their memories around .

Via Choke: What the Secrets of the Brain Reveal About Getting It Right When You Have To :

If you start out with a few well-rehearsed sentences about why you are the right person for the job, this first impression can help set the tone for your interview and for what is taken away from the meeting.

Persuasion expert Robert Cialdini , author of the classic book, Influence , slyly recommends asking them why they thought you might be good for the role .

After people make positive public statements about you they will subconsciously feel the need to not contradict them.

4) Feel Powerful

People who felt powerful before going in to an interview performed better :

Priming participants with feelings of power improves professional interview outcomes… In both studies, unaware judges significantly preferred the power-primed applicants.

As I’ve posted before, “fake it ’til you make it” works .

How can you make sure you feel powerful? Harvard researcher Amy Cuddy recommends doing a “power pose” in private before the interview :

Preparatory power posing is taking a few minutes before walking into a stressful interaction or situation to open up, occupy more space, and make yourself big. Stand with your feet apart and your hands on your hips, or with your arms reaching up in a ‘V.’ Or sit with your legs in front of you, feet propped up on desk or a table, leaning back, with your hands on the back of your head, fingers interlaced, and elbows pointing out.

Try power poses in the elevator, a bathroom stall, the stairwell…wherever you can find two minutes of privacy.

Does striking poses in the bathroom sound silly to you? Don’t laugh — it works :

As predicted, high power posers performed better and were more likely to be chosen for hire, and this relationship was mediated only by presentation quality, not speech quality. Power pose condition had no effect on body posture during the social evaluation, thus highlighting the relationship between preparatory nonverbal behavior and subsequent performance.

What type of people naturally know how to ace a job interview? Narcissists .

Now you don’t want to be overbearing but better to toot your own horn than to have it go untooted:

Narcissists scored much higher in simulated job interviews than non-narcissists, researchers found. They pointed to narcissists’ innate tendency to promote themselves, in part by engaging and speaking at length, which implied confidence and expertise even when they were held to account by expert interviewers.

5) Have a Strong Handshake

Your handshake matters a lot more than you might think.

Via The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism :

…experts at the University of Iowa analyzing interactions in job interviews declared handshakes “more important than agreeableness, conscientiousness, or emotional stability.”

And it’s correlated with getting an offer :

Five trained raters independently evaluated the quality of the handshake for each participant. Quality of handshake was related to interviewer hiring recommendations.

6) Know the Right Questions To Ask

Many people struggle with that moment in most interviews where they ask “Do you have any questions for us?”

This is not only a good time to get information but it’s a great time to impress them with an insightful question.

Quora and Inc offer a few winners:

• Thinking back to people who have been in this position previously, what differentiated the ones who were good from the ones who were really great?
• How would you describe the culture of the company?
• What do you expect me to accomplish in the first 60 to 90 days?

7) Know How To Negotiate Salary

I’ve posted a lot of research about effective negotiating including my interviews with Robert Cialdini and FBI hostage negotiators .

But what’s the thing Harvard’s MBA school says is most important for landing a big offer?

“They need to like you.”

About 3:30 into the video below:

Here’s the equation for getting what you want. Cutting to the chase: You want to get more. You want more money, a better offer, a better deal; here are the components of what you need to do. First, they need to like you. That’s the first component. The things you do that make them like you less make it less likely that you are going to get what you want…

To learn more about how to ace a job interview, click the one you need more help with:

• Increasing charisma .
• “Clicking” with people.
• Mastering conversation .
• Improving your negotiation skills.

Join 45K+ readers. Get a free weekly update via email here .

This piece originally appeared on Barking Up the Wrong Tree .

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How to Ace an Interview

Career advisor Linda Spencer provides sound tips for excelling at your next interview.

An interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. In this video, Linda Spencer, former associate director the Office of Career Services and coordinator of career advising, provides sound tips for excelling at your next interview.

Landing an interview for a job or internship is an exciting moment—but one often immediately followed by dread. No matter your age or experience, meeting with a potential new employer can be stressful.

First, take a deep breath and remind yourself that simply securing an interview means you’ve met the basic qualifications. Next, put in some work to ensure that you make the best impression possible.

Linda Spencer, former associate director of career advising and programming at Harvard Extension School, is no stranger to the interview process. In this post, she gives her expert advice on how to ace an interview—from preparation to follow-up.

Do Your Research

Ahead of an interview, research three key areas:

• The position
• The company

Researching yourself means reviewing the characteristics and qualifications that make you a good fit. Identify your strengths and devise a story with a beginning, middle, and end that demonstrates those skills.

Next, do your homework on the position for which you’re applying. To get more information than what’s in the job posting, search on LinkedIn to find people with similar roles. You can also search sites like Indeed or Glassdoor for job descriptions that may be more comprehensive.

Finally, research the company as much as possible. Go into the interview confident that you’ve read all the pertinent details on the website, and then some. Search the company’s name in Google news and see what the public, as well as current and former employees, have to say.

These steps aren’t just great prep for your interview. They’re a way to ensure you actually want the job.

“I think it’s a great way for the applicant to get psyched—you should want to know this information!” says Spencer.

Prepare Your Stories

A good personal story is powerful. It gives the listener a better understanding of who you are, what motivates you, and how you act in certain situations. That’s why interviewers will often ask you a question that begins, “Tell me about a time when …”

“Most interviews will have a behavioral component, because the idea is that past behavior is an indicator of future performance,” says Spencer.

Stories let you demonstrate your creativity, interpersonal skills, and prowess under pressure. It’s about finding the right story to tell, then practicing how you tell it.

Spencer says that when choosing your stories, go back to the agenda of the organization and find a narrative that aligns with what they’re trying to accomplish. Choose a story from your past that’s relevant and relatable.

If your work history is short, it’s OK to use an anecdote from school or your personal life. Just don’t reach too far back

“It’s not just what you say, but how you say it. They want to get to know you better, so using something outside a work situation could potentially be advantageous.”

Learn about our Business Communication graduate certificate

Practice Your Responses

It’s not enough to memorize your talking points. You should be able to tell your stories fluently and discuss your qualifications with ease. As they say, practice makes perfect.

“Lock yourself in a room with a mirror,” says Spencer. “You’re not an actor. You don’t want a script to memorize. But when you practice out loud, you create a memory that gets ignited when a question is asked.”

You can also practice with a friend, or record and listen to yourself. Additionally, there are tools and apps to help you prepare.

Spencer often recommends students use the resources available to them as admitted degree students. One example is Interview Stream, which simulates an interview and lets people self-review responses.

You should feel tired after an interview, but it’s a good tired, You hopefully know that you gave it 110 percent.

Make a Good First Impression

First impressions are made within seconds of meeting someone. Don’t miss your opportunity to get off on the right foot—and not just with your interviewer.

“The gatekeepers, like receptionists or assistants—sometimes people ignore these individuals, and that’s a huge mistake,” says Spencer.

Treat every person with respect and kindness. Without exception.

When you meet the person who will be conducting the interview, be sure to smile and make eye contact. Let him or her initiate a handshake. Spencer says a good handshake is palm-to-palm, firm, and two to three pumps.

Keep in mind that the interviewer may be more nervous than you. In this case, you may want to break the ice with some safe conversation. Ask them how their day is going, chat about the weather, or comment on something in their office that gives clues about them—maybe a photo of a dog or a degree on the wall.

Finally, be aware that your first impression includes sights and smells. Avoid garish colors and strong fragrances, because you don’t know what they might trigger.

Be Prepared for Different Types of Interviews

You can’t assume your interview will be face-to-face—or even that it will just involve a few other people. It’s important to be prepared for different interview formats, according to Spencer.

Phone Screens

The term “phone screen” may actually be a misnomer, as Spencer recommends treating it as a first interview. No matter who’s on the other line of that initial conversation, they’re making the decision of whether you move forward or not.

When you have a phone interview, be sure to have your answers prepared. Also, think about your surroundings and hold the call in a quiet, private area. (And yes, people can tell if you’re in a moving car or a cafe.)

Video Interviews

Again, prepare for a video interview as if it were an in-person meeting. Make sure your video camera is functioning properly and that your conferencing tech is updated. Take a look around the room and make sure everything within view of your camera is neat and tidy.

Avoid dressing only from the waist up, reminds Spencer. You never know if you’ll need to get up, and you don’t want to reveal that you’re business on top, and party on the bottom.

In-Person Interviews

An in-person interview can be with one person, multiple stakeholders, or a small pool of fellow applicants. Hopefully, you’ll know ahead of time, but be prepared for any scenario.

When interviewing with multiple people, try to give each equal eye contact and treat them the same. If you’re in a group interview with other candidates, treat them like you would a colleague.

Social Interviews

This type of interview can include dinner, drinks, or even an event. When food is involved, be mindful of what you’re ordering, avoiding messy (think spaghetti or soup) or expensive menu items.

Be wary of ordering alcoholic drinks. Never do it unless your hosts are, and even then, keep it to a one-drink maximum (or less, depending on your tolerance). It can be easy to get overly familiar with people in a social setting. Stay in a professional mindset, and remember why you’re there.

In whatever scenario you find yourself, just remain calm, collected, and professional. Most importantly, never forget your own mission statement and the accomplishments that earned you that interview.

Tips for Before and After an Interview

The things you do just before and after your interview can be integral. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Before Your Interview:

• Decide what you’re going to wear.  Try it on to make sure it fits and is clean. Try to dress a little nicer than you expect your interviewer to be dressed, but keep your audience in mind. For instance, at Google and tech startups, a suit won’t be appropriate.
• Know where you’re going.  Do a dry run, if possible. The day of the interview, give yourself plenty of travel time. Don’t check in too early—no more than 10 to 15 minutes. Showing up too early can be a sign of anxiety.

After Your Interview:

• Give a closing statement.  Use those last moments as an opportunity to restate your interest in the position.
• Ask about next steps.  If no one else mentions it, ask about their timeline and whether they’re interviewing other candidates.
• Send a thank-you note.  A concise email thanking them for their time just might tilt the scale in your favor. In certain industries, even a hand-written note can be a nice touch.

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How to Ace an Interview

By: Nick Morgan

You can get an interview by using connections or maybe on the merits of your resume. But getting an interview requires many different tactics than actually landing the job. Think of the job interview…

• Length: 2 page(s)
• Publication Date: Apr 1, 2003
• Discipline: Human Resource Management
• Product #: C0304C-PDF-ENG

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You can get an interview by using connections or maybe on the merits of your resume. But getting an interview requires many different tactics than actually landing the job. Think of the job interview as establishing trust with the interviewer and giving the interviewer a few clear ideas about what you can do for the company. By going into the interview with those two things in mind, you have a much better chance of acing your interview and getting your dream job.

Apr 1, 2003

Discipline:

Human Resource Management

Harvard Business Publishing Newsletters

C0304C-PDF-ENG

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How to ace an interview – in person or online

Are you trying to get a job, but have no idea how to handle an interview? Job interviews can be pretty nerve-racking, especially if you haven’t had much experience or you find it uncomfortable being in the spotlight. Whether you’re interviewing face-to-face or online, you can use our tips below to make sure you’re prepared.

This can help if:

you’re looking for a job

you’re nervous about job interviews

you’ve never had a job interview before

you're interviewing online for the first time.

1. Be presentable

What you wear to a job interview makes a strong first impression – good or bad! Don’t panic, you don’t need to buy a suit if you’re after a job at the local supermarket. Just make sure you have an outfit that is neat, simple and professional. Try to match your outfit to the type of company. For corporate jobs, pants and a button-up shirt or a knee-length dress is a sure win, while a neat pair of jeans and clean sneakers would fit in well at a tech company. You can look at the company's social media accounts to see what their staff wear or give the HR team a call to discuss the office dress code. If you're feeling really unsure, go with the corporate look - you can always adjust your style later when you settle into your job.

In person: We use all of our senses in real life, so as well as looking presentable, make sure to take care with how you smell (avoid fragrances that may be too strong - or not strong enough!) and keep your palms aired before you shake hands.

Online: While your interviewer can only see you from the shoulders up, dressing as you would for a face-to-face interview will help you to feel in the zone.

2. Be punctual

Arriving late to an interview implies that you’ll arrive late to work, so it’s important to get there on time.

In person: Use Google Maps to find the interview location and plan your journey. Aim to arrive 15 minutes early, and then actually tell the receptionist you’re there five minutes before your scheduled interview.

Online: Download and practice using the online platform before your interview. On the day, make sure your technology (including a laptop charger), internet connection and space is set up at least 30 minutes before your interview. Try to replicate a face-to-face environment by sitting at a desk or table, having a good amount of light in the room and a neutral background, then join the meeting a couple of minutes before it’s due to start.

Just FYI, there is such a thing as being too early! You don’t want to be the person that shows up 45 minutes before your interview. The person interviewing you has set aside time in their schedule to meet with you, and you don’t want them to feel pressured because you showed up so early!

3. Be prepared

Prepare to answer questions about yourself, your work experience and what you’re good at. Be sure to refer to your skills and experience in a previous job or volunteer work and how they relate to the requirements of the job. Is this your first job? No problem, talk about your studies at school, or any informal work (e.g. babysitting or tutoring classmates) instead. It’s also good to be prepared to talk about the role you're interviewing for and the company offering it – doing some research on who the company is and how you fit in with their culture will definitely win you some points.

You might be asked to identify some of your weaknesses. To answer this question, mention something small that you aren’t great at, and explain how you are improving in this area. For example, you might tell them you’re not very good at spelling, but that you always check your work carefully for errors. There’s no need to mention your weaknesses unless you’re asked about them.

4. Be curious

Whichever way you interview, it’s important to remember that interviews are a two-way street – your interviewer is seeing if you’re the right fit for the role and organisation, but you’re also sussing out if this company fits with your values and work style. At some point in your interview, you’ll be asked if you have any questions.

Keep a mental note of interesting things your interviewer says that you’re curious to hear more about. It’s also worth having some pre-written questions up your sleeve. Researching the company will help you formulate a set of questions to take with you into the interview. Some handy questions to start with are:

What does a day in this role look like?

What does success in this role look like?

What do they enjoy most about working at this organisation?

What are the next steps in the hiring process?

Unless it’s brought up by the interviewer, questions about salaries are best left for a later discussion, but it’s worth being prepared to answer salary-related questions in case it comes up. You can refer to the job ad or use the to help gauge salary levels.

5. Be confident, keep cool

If you’re not feeling confident, try to fake it! Maintain good posture, smile and make eye contact. The way you present yourself shows that you’ll feel comfortable talking to future co-workers and customers. Remember not to talk too fast. It’s normal to do when you’re nervous, but try to talk at the same speed you would to a family member or friend. It’s also ok to acknowledge that you’re feeling a little nervous with the interviewer – they understand that you’re trying your best. Sometimes simply acknowledging how you feel can reduce the pressure.

In person: If your interviewer offers you a glass of water, take it! If you’re feeling nervous your mouth can get dry, and having a glass of water helps you stop and compose yourself if you need to gather your thoughts.

Online: Prep your interview space with things you need (water, pen and paper) and remove things that will be a distraction (your phone, pets and other members of your household). Remember to speak clearly so you can be heard through the technology.

6. Practice, practice, practice

The best way to feel relaxed and confident is to practise answering questions and talking about yourself. Try to rope in a family member or friend to help you out and pretend they’re the interviewer.

Practice is good but don’t overdo it! Try to take your mind off of the interview the night before, to give yourself a break and allow yourself to relax. Perhaps you can go out to dinner with a friend, or watch a movie and hit the sack early. Just remember, you’re speaking about your own experience and no one knows you better than you!

What can I do now?

Get more tips for interview skills .

Check out the best sites for building your CV.

Interviews can be nerve-wracking; especially behavioral interviews, where employers add a whole new level of questions to help determine not only your skill set, experience, and goals but to better understand your personality and how you handle situations. Still, the basics for being your best remain much the same.

So, here are our top 10 tips on how to ace that interview:

1. Do Your Homework

Before you ever set foot through the door, you should learn as much as you can about the company you’re applying with. Usually, the company’s website is a great place to gain that information, but don’t be afraid to ask for company brochures and literature. Asking questions about the company and wanting to learn more shows the employer that you’re not just interested in the position but in the company itself.

2. Be Prepared

• Know the name of the person you’re interviewing and use it.
• Take extra copies of your resume and a list of references.
• In the days before the interview, sit down and write down questions you would like to ask.
• Think through your experience and be ready to answer questions and offer in-depth information. Often the interviewer is not only looking for how you meet the skill set but assessing your behavioral patterns as well, so be prepared to provide detailed and specific responses.

3. Dress Appropriately

The interview dress code rule of thumb is this: Always dress slightly better than the corporate dress code and the position you’re applying.

So, if your job requires jeans and a t-shirt, interview in pressed trousers and a nice shirt. You want to look clean, pressed, well-groomed, and smartly dressed. This doesn’t mean it has to be expensive, but it does mean it needs to be clean and of decent quality. Pay attention to the shoes; a great suit loses its power if the shoes are worn and scuffed.

4. Be on Time

This doesn’t mean showing up for your 9 AM at 9 AM; it means, showing up at 8:45. If unsure of the location, scout it beforehand. If unsure of the traffic situation, leave extra early. If you end up arriving too soon, don’t wait in the lobby, wait in your car, or find a quiet place to sit and review your notes.

5. Keep a Happy Medium

Don’t ramble. Questions like, “Tell me about yourself” aren’t openings for you to talk about your childhood. Keep your responses on focus; discuss only that which is relevant to the job and company you’re applying for. At the same time, make sure you say enough. Be succinct, but don’t be too short with information. Talking too little is as bad as talking too much.

6. Stay True to the Message

Your message, in this instance, is “Here is what I have done and what I can do for you in a way that delivers a strong return on your investment in hiring me.” This doesn’t mean open season to talk about how you are the end-all and be-all to save the company from itself; no one likes a braggart. What it does mean is that you focus on your strengths, experience, and goals, and how they fit with the position and company.

7. Avoid Talking About Money or Benefits

These discussions are best left for after the job has been offered. Focusing too much on them gives the impression that money and perks are all that you’re interested in. Worse, by discussing salary at this phase, you just give the employer the ammunition they need to screen you out

8. Be Careful When Talking About Your Current/Previous Employer

While some may think that criticizing their past employers shows them as go-getters keen to move ahead; in truth, all it does is paint you as a malcontent. So stick to the old adage: “If you can’t say something positive, don’t say anything at all.”

9. Smile and Stay Calm

Yes, you’re going to be nervous; you know it and they know it. It is how you handle being nervous that will count. Be aware of your body language; sit up straight and don’t fidget. Smile when you talk. Look confident, make eye contact, and speak clearly and succinctly. Don’t rush your words and don’t interrupt the interviewer.

10. Assume That for Everyone You Meet, It Is Interview Number 1

That means, don’t be rude to the receptionist, and when the interviewer says, “I’d like you to meet my boss” assume that the boss has never seen your credentials. Everything you say and do whilst in that environment is part of the interview; so stay on your toes and act the part.

Interviewing is a learned skill, but even those of us who’ve been through our share can still make mistakes. Whether new to the job-seeking world or a veteran; by taking these 10 tips to heart, you are well on your way to ensuring that the next interview you’re on, you’ll make a great impression.

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How to Prepare for a Job Interview in 9 Steps

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To ace a job interview, you want to seem knowledgeable about the company and position, well-versed in your own work history and armed with some thoughtful questions about the role. You also don’t have unlimited time to spend preparing.

By focusing your time and efforts on the most important parts of interview preparedness, you’ll improve your chances of having a great interview — and, hopefully, landing an offer .

How to prepare for a job interview

1. read about the company and understand what it does.

Make sure you can describe what product or service the company offers. Spend some time on its website and read about its mission, culture and values, and think about how they align with what you’re looking for in your next job. You don’t need to understand everything the company does — but, hypothetically, if the company runs an app, you’ll want to be able to say more about the company than “it’s a tech company.”

Also, search the company online, and see if it’s made any recent headlines. If the company’s recently made news, maybe for something like launching a new product or closing an acquisition, mentioning or asking about that news can help show your interest in the business.

2. Review the position and its responsibilities

Read and reread the job description until you’re deeply familiar with the position and its responsibilities. If any parts of the job description are unclear, ask your interviewer for more information on those sections. You may think it’s wiser to pretend you understood everything in the description, but asking educated questions will show the interviewer you spent time researching and thoughtfully considering the role.

If you don’t have any immediate questions about the role, prepare to talk about what aspects of the role are particularly interesting or would be an exciting challenge. Also, prepare some general questions about the job or company. Experts say that questions show the interviewer that you can see a future at the company and want to learn how it operates.

Some potential questions to ask include what professional development opportunities are available, what growth looks like in the position or department, how the company brings employees together, or how the company treats promotions.

3. Reflect on your own professional experience

Robert Half, a human resources consulting firm, recommends preparing a concise elevator pitch that highlights your experience and top skills, and explains why you’re a fit for the role and it’s a fit for you.

Also, if a job’s listed on your resume, be prepared to speak about it in some detail — even if it’s a role you held years ago. Refresh your memory by reviewing an old resume, or any old materials you still have from previous jobs. Prepare to talk about your day-to-day responsibilities, projects or assignments; your relationship with your previous manager; any achievements or recognitions you earned, as well as your accomplishments; and what you learned in your time there.

If you’re in an industry that uses numbers or data to illustrate your success, try to gather and provide top highlights.

4. Know your professional goals

Just like you should be prepared to talk about your previous experience, you’ll want to be ready to articulate your professional goals, both in the near future and long term. You’ll likely be asked some version of “Where do you see yourself in five years?” so the interviewer can learn more about your long-term goals.

When answering this question, it’s important to avoid getting too specific about things like salary, titles or timelines. Don’t say that your goal is to earn a certain amount of money, attain a specific title, or do either of those things within a specific time. It signals that you may have your eye on other jobs while at the company and that you don’t see the company as a place where you want to settle in. Instead, focus on the impact you want to have and the ways you want to grow and be challenged in your career.

If you aren’t sure what your near- or long-term goals are, that’s OK. Even saying something like, “I hope to be making a significant impact at an organization whose values align with mine,” tells the interviewer that you’re driven by more than money or titles. Be ready to follow up with the ways you see yourself being able to make an impact at the company you’re interviewing with.

5. Ask a recruiter for advice

Recruiters connect individuals with open positions that match their experience and goals, and they usually focus on a specific industry or job. They can be valuable resources during interviews and negotiations. If you’re not working with a recruiter and you’re still applying to other jobs while interviewing, consider reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn to help with your search.

For candidates who are working with a recruiter, feel free to ask specific questions before your interview . They may have direct insights into how the interview process is structured, what the company is looking for in a candidate, and even the interviewer’s personality or disposition.

A recruiter may also be able to guide you on what to wear and how to approach the interview. If your interviewer, say, prefers more formal interviews, a recruiter might encourage you to dress in traditional business attire or keep casual conversation to a minimum. Your recruiter may also be able to share what kinds of interview questions to expect, such as behavioral questions, which are designed to reveal how you behave or respond in certain situations.

6. Review commonly asked interview questions

Set aside a few hours to review commonly asked interview questions . Think about how you would answer each question, and write down those answers. Then, practice answering each question out loud. Run through your answers until your responses feel familiar and comfortable.

If you’ll be doing a video or phone interview , keep a piece of paper handy with important dates, facts and figures. Prepare to answer all questions without having to consult it, though. You don’t want to rely on your notes — instead, think of them as a backup if you draw a blank or forget specific information you would like to share.

7. Decide what to wear

Naturally, what to wear to an interview depends on whether you’re interviewing in person or remotely. If you’re interviewing in person, ask about the company’s dress code. Then, some experts say, aim to dress for a position one level higher than what you’re interviewing for.

If you’re interviewing over the phone, experts recommend that you dress as if you’re interviewing in person. Dressing up more than you would on a typical day will put you in the interview mindset, and help you focus and listen closely to your interviewer. The same guidance goes for video interviews.

» MORE: How to prepare for a job fair

8. Test your tech and set up your space

If you’re going to have a video interview from home, it’s best to find a quiet room and set up your computer in front of a clean, uncluttered background. Avoid taking the interview in front of busy, distracting decor, like posters or a cluttered bookshelf. If this isn’t possible, either take the call in front of a blank wall or use a virtual background. You can typically find several background options in your video software’s preferences.

Make sure your internet connection is strong in that room, too. Conduct a test call with a friend or family member, so they can make sure your audio and video are working properly. Also, make sure your video conferencing software doesn’t have any scheduled updates that could interrupt the interview.

9. Follow up after your interview

Just like it’s recommended to call after you apply for a job , sending a gracious follow-up email within a day or two of your interview is widely encouraged. In your email, thank the interviewer for their time, express your strong enthusiasm for the opportunity, and mention one or two aspects of the job that particularly interest you and why.

Once you send your thank-you email, you’ll reach the hardest part of the interview process: waiting to hear back. Be patient, and congratulate yourself on having landed an interview in the first place.

Sport and Competition

10 ways to ace a job interview, give yourself an edge over your competition..

Posted June 5, 2012 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

The job market is getting tougher and tougher. Improve your chances with these tips — you'd be surprised at how many people don't do these 10 things. And that gives you an advantage over your competition .

Here's where I add the caveat that every place of employment is different, and not all of these tips may apply. Take what you want, and leave the rest.

1. Do your research.

Look up the company. Look up their competitors. Read their last annual report. Know that company backwards and forwards. Know their past, current role in the market, and their goals for the future. How can you help them achieve those goals? It doesn't matter if the company has 10 employees or 10,000. Every company knows where they are now, and where they want to be. Figure out how you can be the bridge that gets them there.

If you know who will be interviewing you, look online to see if they have written any articles for professional magazines and journals — then read them. You don't have to be all, "Hey, I read your article on amazing cat toys!", but it does help to know their background and opinion on issues. It also helps if you find out that your interviewer is from the same town as your best friend's dad. Networking — it helps. A lot.

2. Role-play your interview.

The old joke goes, "How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice." The same thing applies for job interviews. Have a friend (preferably one with a good interview track record) play the interviewer and run through an interview from start to finish. (A list of common job interview questions and answers can be found here .) Then have your friend critique your performance. Finally, switch roles, with you as the interviewer and your friend as the interviewee. Take note of how your friend answers interview questions. Now practice again. And again.

3. Practice your handshake.

Your handshake says a lot. A nice, firm handshake says you are professional. A floppy handshake gives the impression that you are passive and lacking in social skills. Too firm of a handshake gives the impression of aggressiveness. Not fair, you say? Sure, you could argue that — and not get a second interview. Practice your handshake with a friend.

4. Learn a company's culture, but be genuine.

A business has its own culture, or set of social norms (behaviors). If you learn that the business expects you to wear a business suit, dress accordingly. If you are being interviewed in a culture that is different than your own, educate yourself. You aren't expected to follow the exact social norms when you go to a first interview, but you should at least be aware of them. How do you find out the company's culture? Get Googly. Look them up. Watch their training videos, if available online. If you know someone who has worked at the company (*if* he or she is very trustworthy) ask them about their job at the company and the "unwritten rules" of the workplace.

Remember, be genuine. Don't fake a behavior that is foreign to you. The only thing that is okay to "fake" is a feeling of confidence .

5. Look smooth when you arrive for the interview.

When you step out of your car, or walk from the train station to the building, the interviewees may be watching you from the window. (Yes, it's true.) How you carry yourself is important. This means that you wear an outfit that needs minimal to no adjusting, tugging, or any other distracting "fixes." Your outfit fits you well, and you feel comfortable in it. Women, if you are wearing heels, practice walking in them before your interview. Also, make sure the portfolio you have with you is neat and organized.

And since you know exactly where you are going and left enough time to get to the interview, you will exude ease and confidence. Walk with purpose and direction. And don't talk on your cell phone as you walk to the building. Just don't.

If you aren't feeling all confident and smooth, fake it. Act like you are. Repeat to yourself (in your head, not out loud) that you are confident. And soon you will be.

6. Be punctual, but not too early.

Arriving 15 to 20 minutes before your scheduled interview is acceptable. Any more than that, and you may be sending the wrong message. Plus if you arrive too early, the staff may feel like they need to entertain you or continue offering you coffee, etc. They're trying to make a good impression too.

Granted, if they ask you to get there 15 minutes prior to your interview to fill out paperwork, get there 25 minutes early. So what should you do if you arrive early? Take some deep breaths, repeat an affirmative saying to yourself, like "I am competent and intelligent" or "this interview is going to go really well". Sounds goofy? It works.

7. Know how to answer the infamous "What are your weaknesses?" question.

If you answer with, "I don't really have any weaknesses," it doesn't make you look confident. Instead, you look arrogant and lacking in the ability to self-reflect. Answer the question with something that is relevant to the job, and a way that you are working on improving this issue. However, you have to be careful with the answer — if you are applying for a job at a zoo, you don't want to respond with, "I'm working on my hatred of animals." Instead, you may say, "I'd like to learn more about marine conservation efforts. I'm going to be attending the Marine Conservation Conference in July so I can learn more." Phrase it as a positive. Say, "This is what I'd like to improve upon, and this is how I'm going to do that" rather than, "I'm not good at blah."

8. Know what to ask your interviewers.

Remember, you are also interviewing the company. You want to make sure that it is a good fit for you. Never respond to "Do you have any questions for us?" with "I'm good, no questions." Bzzzzz! WRONG! I'll tell you what you DON'T want to ask - "What's the salary for this position?" or "How much vacation time do we get?" You don't have the job - yet. DO consider asking about the day-to-day responsibilities of the position, the company's management style, or opportunities for growth within the company. You may also want to consider asking the interviewees what they enjoy about working for the company. Practice this part of the interview in the role play mentioned in secret #2 (above).

9. Send a "thank you" note.

Send a real thank you note. Not an email. Email thank yous just look lazy. And lazy is not the impression you want to give the interviewer(s). Mail a thank you note right away. Use a professional-looking thank you note, not your thank you notes with teeny tiny butterflies. Professional thank yous are pretty simple. They say "Thank You" on the front. That's all. Say that it was nice meeting the interviewer(s) and you look forward to hearing from the company soon.

10. Follow up.

If you haven't heard back in a reasonable amount of time ("reasonable" differs on how long the interviewer told you it would take before they made a decision), give the interviewer a call. If you didn't get the job, It's appropriate to ask what you could improve upon in the future. Never underestimate this important step. I know quite a few people that got jobs at the company of their dreams because the first candidate withdrew — and the interviewer remembered which candidates followed up after the interview process was over.

Good luck, and go get 'em!

Copyright 2012 Sarkis Media LLC

Stephanie Moulton Sarkis, Ph.D., N.C.C., D.C.M.H.S., L.M.H.C ., is the author of Gaslighting: Recognize Manipulative and Emotionally Abusive People — and Break Free .

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11 tips for how to ace a job interview

Your  CV blew your future employer away , you got an interview and now you need to ace it to get the job. Interviews can be quite intimidating, but in the end, success comes down to being well prepared, likable and confident.

Here are our top 11 tips for how to ace a job interview:

1. More knowledge = more confidence

You started the research process with a tailored application , now it’s time to up the ante: Find out about the company’s mission, achievements and milestones. Social media channels are as much of a must-read as profiles about the industry, the competition and the person you’re interviewing with. The more you know, the more empowered and confident you will feel.

2. Dress the part

Interview clothes should always look professional, be comfortable and make you feel confident. Find out what the company culture is like and how people dress before deciding on what you’ll wear (think suits for banks, something business casual for ad agencies etc.). And remember that if you never wear suits and want to wear one for the interview, practice wearing one in advance (you might end up looking and feeling uncomfortable otherwise.) Don’t forget to shine your shoes and make sure they don’t give you any blisters before you head out the door.

3. Master the warm-up questions…

You can bet money that you will have to tell the interviewer about yourself, why you should be hired and what your career goals are. Practice the answers but don’t sound like a broken record. Don’t just memorize your CV and basically read it out when asked to talk about yourself. It’s smart to use it as a reference point as your interviewer is likely to have it in front of them and to mention key events or points when appropriate, just make sure your answers always add something interesting to the story your CV already tells.

4. …and get ready for the tough ones

Why don’t you tell me about your weaknesses ? Here’s how you score bonus points with tricky questions like these: Pick a weakness and elegantly turn it into a strength that relates to the job. “I’m a little impatient, but it’s simply because I like to finish projects on time and not disrupt the workflow of the whole team.”  The key thing is, to be honest, and never ever answer with: “I have no weaknesses.”

5. Prepare for some brain-teasers

If you were a kitchen tool, which one would you be and why? These questions don’t always come up, but if they do, try to be relaxed and confident when answering them. They’re there to test you on your critical thinking skills and how well you think on your feet. Make sure to highlight your personality with your answer and make your answers as fun and interesting as you can (without being inappropriate, of course.) And what about that kitchen tool then? Consider an answer like this:  I’m a can opener. Even though it’s not the first tool that comes to mind in the kitchen, it can be crucial for every course of the meal.

6. Know when to ask for a time-out

If you don’t know the answer to a question or you feel yourself panicking a little, take a deep breath and ask confidently and calmly if you can get back to the question later. Avoid rambling on and on and don’t let any panic show. It’s much better if you build up your confidence with some other (easier) questions and then return to this tougher one later. (Who knows, your interviewer might forget to ask it in the end anyway!) Word of warning though: Don’t rely on this too much and only skip questions if absolutely necessary; asking to skip a question too many times could make you seem unprepared.

7. Be honest

Gaps or detours in your CV are no reason to freak out. You got an interview, after all, so they clearly liked your profile and want to get to know you better. Be honest and explain what you learned during that time off (whatever the reason was) and how it will benefit you in the job you’re applying for; even a period of unemployment can be turned into an advantage if you used that time to develop yourself somehow and kept actively looking for work.

8. Avoid these

Don’t be late, rude or talk bad about your former bosses or colleagues. Lying, oversharing, making inappropriate jokes or dominating the conversation are other great ways to make a bad impression. Eating an onion sandwich on a poppy seed bun right before the interview might do the trick as well. If you show up on time, look presentable and come across as nice and sociable, you’re pretty much guaranteed to get off to a good start.

9. Always (always) have a question prepared

Questions are easy to prepare so never miss the opportunity to show off your critical thinking skills with gems such as “What speaks against hiring me? ”. If there are any doubts or hesitation, this is your chance to clarify something about the job on offer and provide more information about yourself.

10. Actually, make that a smart question

Introduce your question with a personal bit of information and elegantly kill two birds with one stone: “I taught kids coding in summer camp. Would my role enable me to be involved in projects that give back to the community?”

11. Follow up like a boss

Last but definitely not least, always follow up with an email or even a handwritten card thanking your interviewer for the opportunity. It’s a good chance to quickly mention, once again, why you’re a good fit and how lovely it was to meet everyone. Keep it short, sweet and friendly, and remember to send it within 24 hours of your interview.

Good luck! We’re keeping our fingers crossed for you!

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How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!)

• Share This: Share How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!) on Facebook Share How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!) on LinkedIn Share How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!) on X

By Stav Ziv

“Tell me about yourself” might seem like an easy win of an  interview question —after all, you know all about yourself! And good thing, too, because it’s often the very first thing an interviewer will ask you to do—whether you’re having a preliminary phone screen, speaking to your prospective boss, or sitting down with the CEO during the final round.”

Read the full article on The Muse: https://www.themuse.com/advice/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question-answer-examples

More From Forbes

15 expert job interview tips to get hired faster in 2024.

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Insider tips reveal actions job hunters can take to get a leg up on landing their dream job in ... [+] today's competitive labor market.

If you’re a job seeker wanting to thrive in today’s competitive job market, you need to know the necessary skill sets to scale an interview. A recent report draws on expert insights from recruiters and hiring managers, revealing insider tips for every stage of the interview process. What to do before, during and after the interview gives you a leg up on landing your dream job faster. Career experts at CV Genius consulted with recruitment professionals and hiring managers on their top 15 interview tips for job interview success.

Tips Before The Interview

1- Know your CV . Going over your CV before your interview to refresh your memory of what you included is essential, according to Derek Bruce, operations director at Skills Training Group . He underscores the importance of making sure that you’re prepared to talk about any part of your CV from projects to achievements to roles. “If you led a project that enhanced a business’s sales by 20%, be prepared to describe what you did exactly in order to get sales moving,” he insists.

2- Do a deep dive into the company . According to Vit Koval, global hiring & remote work advocate at Globy, it’s important to research and understand the company’s mission, values, culture and recent achievements. “Use this knowledge to tailor your responses and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role,” he suggests, adding that candidates should use every resource available to dig into the company and role, including the website, social media profiles and generative AI tools (like ChatGPT). Matt Collingwood, director at VIQU Recruitment, warns job hunters to use caution with AI. “Some AI technology has old data, which means the AI tool is not up-to-date and could give candidates incorrect information,” he explains, warning that in some instances candidates used AI to prepare. When recruiters asked about their understanding of the company, AI supplied them with dated information or data about another company with a similar name.

3- Prepare engaging stories about your achievements . Will Hatton, founder & CEO at Broke Backpacker, points out that job seekers can’t prepare for every curve ball that might be thrown, but they can be prepared to answer the things they do know will come up. He advises that candidates test-take the opportunity ahead of time to consider and plan some of the stories they can share.

4- Practice interviewing with AI . While you should use AI with caution, it can be a great tool for mock interviews, states Carter Seuther, CEO of Credit Summit Debt Consolidation. He shares that you can give generative AI tools like ChatGPT information about the company and role, ask it to give you a mock interview, type in your answers and request feedback. Other helpful tools are Wizco’s Ava or InterviewFocus , designed especially for interview preparation.

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5- Prepare for a video interview. Bill Catlette, managing partner at Contented Cow Partners, apprises job seekers on preparing for a video interview, reminding them to make sure the technology works, that you are familiar with it and you’re capturing your best image.

6- Ensure you know when and where the interview is . The last thing you want to do is show up late or flustered, so you want to avoid rushing around looking for the company’s location. Vlad Khorkhorov, CEO & co-founder of WebsitePolicies.com, emphasizes the importance of knowing the exact details of your interview. This includes the date, time, place (what floor/department) and the requirements of what to bring. “While this may seem basic and a fairly simple task,” he notes, “most people are so excited they often forget these things and end up cramming on the day itself.”

Tips For During The Interview

7- Dress appropriately . “Dress in a way that is appropriate to the company,” offers Diane Rosen, career coach at Compass Consultants. “If it is business casual, wear business casual. If the company is very casual—such as a small startup—be casual but respectful. No ripped jeans or t-shirts with writing. You never know who might be offended. You want to show that you take the interview seriously and that you have the requisite maturity for the position.” More on how to look the part here .

8- Bring copies of your CV and cover letter . Never assume that your interviewer will have quick access to your job application documents, according to Derek Bruce. “Even if the interviewers are going to have digital copies, bringing your own shows preparation.” He cites one case in which a job seeker offered a copy when the interviewer’s digital device bombed, which showed foresight in his favor.

9- Nail non-verbal interactions. Job interview success is based on more than what you say. Your body language speaks volumes, advises Dr.George Sik, psychologist and director of assessment at Eras. “Darting eyes can signal nervousness or untrustworthiness, while maintaining eye contact demonstrates engagement and interest,” he explains, adding, “Avoid common body language mistakes like slouching, fidgeting and a limp handshake, as these can convey nervousness or lack of confidence.”

10- Show your enthusiasm for the rol e. When an employer interviews you for a job, they need to know that you want that role. “Even if it’s just using descriptive words, make sure the interviewer can feel your enthusiasm,” says Forrest McCall, co-owner of Mama Needs a Project. He cautions that the last thing you want is an interviewer thinking, “He or she didn’t seem to want to be here” at the conclusion of the interview.

11- Ask informed questions. The questions you ask in an interview are just as important as the ones you answer. Derek Bruce advises that you ask interesting questions about the role, your potential team, the company culture and next steps. This is your chance to show that you’re interested in the insights you can access and that you are an active versus passive interview participant.

12- Treat every moment at the company as part of the interview . Employers scrutinize your conduct from the time you enter the company to when you leave. Don’t let that thought make you tense, but view every moment as an opportunity to impress your target employer. If you see a piece of paper that missed the trash can lying on the floor, for example, Bill Catlette recommends picking it up and disposing of it to make a good first impression.

Tips For After The Interview

13- Take time for self-reflection. Hiring experts indicate how important reviewing your interview experience is to find ways to improve. But you should also avoid beating yourself up over mistakes. “Be sure to celebrate what you did well during the conversation,” says Kyle Elliott, founder & tech career coach at CaffeinatedKyle.com. “If you happen to mess up a bit, try not to be too hard on yourself,” he suggests. You’re human, after all.”

14- Send an engaging thank-you messag e. Writing a thank-you note after your interview is a matter of etiquette, but don’t treat the message as an afterthought. A well-written thank-you email can make all the difference, Matt Collingwood acknowledges. “I’ve had tens of candidates over my career who have secured offers based on a follow-up email. The candidate should thank them and take it as an opportunity to explain why they’re a good fit for the role. They might have thought of a better answer to one of the interview questions, so it’s a good time to say, ‘Having thought about my answer to X question, I’d like to add...’”

15- Check in again (if necessary) . According to Derek Bruce, it’s okay to send a gentle follow-up email asking about where things stand, but be patient. He advises against sending multiple follow-ups. “Persistent follow-ups might signal a lack of tact,” he warns. “For example, a note reaffirming your interest and asking if there were any new developments sends the point with poise.”

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Telling your story in a job interview

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“When the interviewer leans in and says those four words, “Tell me about yourself,” it’s your chance to shine.

And in the world of a job candidate, few questions hold as much weight as “Tell me about yourself.” It’s somehow simple  and  complicated.

But where do you start?

Well, you can start by forgetting the mundane routine of reciting your life story. Time is precious. And in today’s market, hiring managers and recruiters are busy. It’s time to learn how to captivate them with a concise, informative, and impactful answer—one that showcases your professional journey and leaves a lasting impression.”

Read more on Teal .

Career coach shares five tips on how to ace your job interview

Posted: November 2, 2023 | Last updated: November 3, 2023

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