Tips for Interviewing Better
Are you ready to ace your next job interview? It’s your chance to show off your skills and prove why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
But let’s face it, interviews can be nerve-wracking. That’s why we’ve crafted a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your next interview like a seasoned professional.
1. Research the Company and Job Description.
Spend time learning about the company you’re interviewing for, including its culture, values, and recent news. See if they have any information online about major projects or spotlights in the media or news (especially on social media). Review the job description with a fine-tooth comb and tailor your responses to highlight how you align with the required skills and qualifications. Pull from the language used, as it has likely been crafted around the everyday culture and mindset of the workplace. A well-informed candidate stands out from the rest and says, “I’m the one you’ve been looking for!”
2. Behavioral Questions: Paint a Vivid Picture.
Be prepared for behavioral questions that explore your past experiences and respond with specific examples of your achievements. Prepare a few examples well in advance and pull from those. It’s okay to pause and reflect before answering a question. A solid answer will stand out long after the pause has been forgotten. Use storytelling to highlight your abilities but also demonstrate how you handle challenges and contribute to the success of a team. Just make sure you don’t run on––balance your time with enough information to showcase your talents without losing the interest of the one(s) interviewing you.
3. Flip the Script: Ask Smart Questions.
Show the employer that you are more than just a candidate; you have an inquisitive mind. Prepare insightful questions for the interviewer based on the research you’ve done. “I noticed online that your company recently implemented a more cross-function system for teams. How do you see that influencing the future of innovation?” Informed questions reflect your enthusiasm for the role and the company. It’s not just about what they can offer you, but also what you can bring to the table to best serve them!
4. Perfect Your Personal Presentation.
On the big day, dress the part. If you don’t have an idea on company policy, go for a refined business casual look. Make sure you have all the necessary documents in your arsenal without being dependent on them. Exhibit positive body language, maintain eye contact, and offer a firm handshake to convey confidence and professionalism. Doing a virtual interview? Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a clean background to eliminate distractions. Prepare as though you were going in person (that means wear shoes!). A clutter-free, put together environment and candidate puts the best foot forward and allows the interviewer to focus on you.
5. Rehearse Like a Pro.
Combat nerves by conducting mock interviews with a friend, life coach, or career counselor. This will not only refine your answers but also provide valuable feedback on your interview performance. Don’t take any of the feedback personally––remember, it’s all meant to help you ace the interview. Take it a step further and practice in the mirror or record yourself speaking. We often don’t realize how much or how little we’re using facial expressions, hand gestures, and positive body language to present our best selves. Practice with commonly asked interview questions. Avoid technical hiccups by testing your equipment, internet connection, and video conferencing platform beforehand. It’s not just practice; it’s a dress rehearsal for success!
6. Pray Over the Company.
Don’t just pray for your success; pray for the wellbeing of the company and its people. Pray as though you were there. What would you want someone else to pray over you? Establishing a heart of compassion and care for the team before you meet them builds a connection in your own heart and mind so that you’ll be at ease when that first introduction happens.
Here’s an example prayer: “Father, as I prepare for this interview, I lift up this organization and all its employees to You. May Your love and grace extend through me to each person I come in contact with. I give this whole job search journey to You, and I pray that according to Your will, You would open up the opportunity for me to serve others with humility, integrity, and excellence, reflecting Your character in all I do. May Your will be done as I trust You to guide me faithfully the whole way. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
7. Post-Interview Gratitude: Follow up with Thank You.
Don’t let the opportunity slip away after the interview. Within 24 hours, send a thank you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the role. Include or send separate thank you notes to anyone that participated if it’s a group interview. If you don’t have their emails, ask the hiring manager to extend your gratitude to everyone who participated. This small gesture can leave a lasting positive impression and help set you apart. And if you don’t end up receiving an offer, acts like this establish a mutually respectful relationship that can open the door for opportunities (such as another opening in the company that the hiring manager thinks you might be a better fit for).
8. Learn from Every Experience.
Each interview is a learning experience. Even if you don’t secure the position, use the feedback and insights gained to enhance your skills and performance for future job opportunities.
- Reflect on Feedback: If you weren’t given feedback, ask the recruiter or hiring manager if they’d be willing to provide feedback on the interview. This can be through a quick phone call or email. This shows initiative and self-reflection while also giving you insights on what’s important to interviewers. Even if nothing went glaringly wrong, identify areas for improvement and make steps to work on them.
- Continuous Learning: Keep honing your skills through the interview process. If you expand your skills or earn a certificate between the time you submit your resume and interview, it’s a great opportunity to bring it up in the interview to show that you’re a learner who continually seeks growth opportunities. There’s always room for improvement and everyone loves a go-getter!
- Networking: Connect with recruiters, hiring managers, and members of the interview panels on professional platforms like LinkedIn for future opportunities. Ensure to include a short note to remind them who you are and why you’re connecting. Many professionals receive random connection requests. Nobody expects to be invited into someone’s house without introducing themselves first. There’s no difference for someone’s digital door.
As the Bible says in Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.” Trust in Jesus and His plan for your future and you won’t go wrong. Be proactive by preparing thoroughly and strategically, and keep in mind that each interview is an opportunity to learn more. Even if you don’t get the job, God is still exceedingly faithful, and He will never let you down. He’ll lead you to the place that’s looking for someone just like you. Take heart and press on. God will make a way!
