For some people interviews are simple and they can ace interviews with ease. But, for most of us, interviews can be nerve-wracking, and you need a strategy to organize your answers based on the interview you are attending.
When attending an interview, it is important to understand the company, the job posting in its entirety, and whom you will be meeting with. There are a few ways you can approach this to have a good performance during your interview. Another point is to always understand your values when you are going to an interview. Understanding what you are looking for in life both personally and professionally will help to guide you in interviews and during your job search.
Understanding the company – First, you want to understand the company beyond the job posting. Most well-written job postings will have information about the company. However, this isn’t always the case. It is important to research the company on their website. Go to their career page and see what they offer as a company culture. Also, read some reviews of the company on websites like GlassDoor and Indeed to gain more insight into what it is like to work there. See if the company offers training and professional development, these can be great perks that can help you grow personally and professionally. The main point is to understand the company and its culture to see how it fits with your values and needs as a professional. Asking who will be interviewing you is important. Don’t be afraid to ask who you will be meeting with during the interview.
Understanding the role – Knowing the role you are applying to and remembering it is important. It should go without saying, however, in all my years working as a recruiter I have had many candidates say they applied for various roles and that they don’t remember submitting their application. For a recruiter or hiring manager, this is a big red flag. Employers expect job seekers to be organized and strategic in their search for a job.
Know the role:
- Understand why you are applying for the job and how you can benefit the company.
- Know what is expected of you in this role and know what skills and experience you have that will be of benefit and help you to perform well in the role.
- Know how to explain yourself in the role in the interview. Do this by having scenarios already thought about and connecting them back to the job description. Have solid stories and not just blanket statements about why you would be good in the role.
- Research common industry interview questions and come up with your answers before you go to the interview. This will help you to feel confident and prepared. It is much like preparing for a test.
Being prepared for the interview by following some of these guidelines will help you to increase confidence and performance.
Jennifer Bouley is a Career Development Practitioner located in St Stephen. She has a passion for helping others find wellness in their careers, while finding fulfilling jobs. She is the owner of Bliss + You Coaching. Jennifer can be reached at blissplusyou@gmail.com.
