Seal The Deal: Preparing For The Job Interview

When a potential employer calls you in for an interview, you are nearing the home stretch. The rest of your competition would have been narrowed down to a few worthy applicants, and you’re one of them! Congratulate yourself for getting this far. You’re work isn’t done though. Here are some ways to help you prepare for that all-important interview:

Know the address. Visit the place a day or two before the interview. Find out how to get there, the best drive route, what bus to take, how far it is to walk from the subway station to the building. On the day of the interview, you’ll know exactly what route to take. You wouldn’t want to be late because you couldn’t find the address, would you?

Do some research on the company. In this day and age, you can find almost anything or anyone on the Internet. Therefore, it’s no excuse for not doing research on the company you intend to work for. Check out the company’s website; zoom in on the post that you’re applying for. How do you see yourself within the organization? How do you align yourself with the company’s mission/vision statements?

Arrive a few minutes before the interview. Give yourself some time to have a drink of water, to freshen up, and to compose yourself. Do whatever it takes to condition your mind: talk to yourself, do some positive affirmation, say a prayer. Believe that you will do well and that the job will be yours! Take a few deep breaths before walking into the office or the conference room. Release all that nervous energy. Relax!  

Dress for success. For the gentlemen; a business suit or a nice shirt and pants is proper business attire. For the ladies; a nice top and tailored skirt or pants with a pair of black pumps works great. Make sure your shoes are clean and well-polished. Wear minimal jewelry. Dress smart, but also remember to dress comfortably. When you look and feel successful, you exude success!

Smile! One of the easiest ways to relax is to smile. Doing so puts you and others in a better mood instantly! Smile at the receptionist when you enter. Smile at the interviewer when you are introduced. Smile throughout the interview, then smile again when saying goodbye. Be sincere when you smile though; a fake smile could be off-putting. A great smile radiates from within.

Prepare to ask questions. Interviewers these days will round up the interview with an invitation to ask questions. Fire away! Take this opportunity to show the interviewer that you’ve given some thought to the job, and that you are interested. Asking questions will also put to rest any apprehensions you might have about the job. It could also be a window by which you could eventually negotiate, if you are offered the job. Most importantly, not only does the company need to interview you; you need to interview the company!

Above all, let your interviewer see the real you during the interview. Be friendly, engaging, and confident. Show the interviewer why you’re the best person for the job. This is your chance to “seal the deal!”