Top 10 Interview Tips

As a career coach, my strength is in preparing job seekers for upcoming interviews. I have spent years helping people get the jobs they want to get. Below are my Top 10 Interview Tips. As you are navigating the hiring process, the most critical part of your job search strategy is the interview. Check out my Top 10 Tips:

1. Prepare for your Interview – Assess the job description. Prepare for questions you anticipate from the hiring manager. Prepare questions for the interviewers. Know who you are and what you can bring to that organization
2. Research the company - Ask the HR representative or hiring manager about the type of interview you will experience. How many people will interview you? This is an important question. What critical information should you know about the organization? Check out their website. Identify problems you can help solve in the organization.
3. Know your key strengths & growth opportunities
4. Speak well of your previous employer no matter what happened – You will eliminate yourself from the process if you speak poorly of your previous employer. In this case, it is better to say nothing than to tear them down. Find something of value to share about them if the question comes up. Be prepared.
5. Be on time – Early is always better than being late. You will not recover for being tardy.
6. Deliver a firm, confident handshake - If you get sweaty palms when you are nervous, find a way to touch your pant leg, or skirt as you are moving your hand towards the other. Be discrete.
7. Look good! – Grooming matters – Wrinkles, bad breath, body odor and too much make up will move you to the bottom of the pile, no matter how skilled you may be. Check yourself in the mirror. Go to the bathroom and check in the mirror if possible. Carry a mint and deodorant just in case!
8. Answer questions concisely and be prepared to give further detail – Give 1 to 2 minute responses to the questions being asked.
9. Bring extra copies of your resume and cover letter – Most people don’t do this, so this will differentiate you from other candidates. Skip the pretty paper. Gray, white, or cream will do. A nice navy blue folder will set it off nicely. Make sure you have enough for all of the people interviewing you that day. It is a detail and details matter when you are attempting to differentiate yourself from the crowd.
10. Be open and honest - Lying will catch up with you, whether you believe it or not. In this market, if you get caught, it will be a heavy penalty and it may take months to recover. Honesty is still the best policy!

These are my Top 10 Tips for your next Interview! I have lots more and I will share them over time here at Bizzia. Nothing I share is a silver bullet, nor will it guarantee positive results. There are so many variables that go into a successful job search, however every one of my tips will ensure that you are much more prepared and that you position your self to be a successful candidate. If you start with your preparation and you ensure that you are honest within the scope of your job search, everything else will fall into place. If you have questions, you are welcome to leave a comment below or send me an email directly and I will respond.
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