How to nail that interview

As a seasoned interview-e, I decided to share some of my top tips for nailing that interview. I know it can be daunting sometimes heading into that room with all eyeballs on you, but in order to show up you need to prepare.  

By the time you get the call or email for an interview, you need to know that it is the last step of a hiring process. After that, an employer has all the elements to see if someone perfectly matches the open position or if someone else is better. At times another interview may be required, especially if the employer is undecided between two or three people, but once you are in the door, that is your moment to make it count.

Needless to say, this step of the hiring process is, by far, the most stressful one for the job seeker. You’ve made it to the hot seat, and then all is decided within a matter of minutes. It is therefore better to be prepared, well prepared, and leave no stone unturned. There are many books, websites, blog posts and forums that deal with this topic. You aren’t expected to say something new, but at least help the interview panel on honing in on some important aspects and what you bring to the table. The things that, in the very end, will make the difference.

Here are my 10 top tips I have followed which have helped me secure the bag and climb the career ladder.

1. Be prepared. Practice the answers to the typical questions most employers ask in an interview. If you are not used to being interviewed, this can be the most stressful aspect you will face. That’s why practicing in order to increase your level of confidence is highly recommendable. Therefore, ask a friend/colleague who is in a management role to help you with this: you can roleplay, play the applicant and the hiring manager, film, record yourself, do anything you need to evaluate your state of mind and your skills. Test your performance, and further enhance the best part and strengthen the weakest aspects. Make a list of the job requirements, think about them, talk about them aloud, roleplay. Some people get interviewed so many times in the course of their lives they could be defined as the real “job interview pros.” They sound so concrete, coherent and true to themselves they could be hired almost everywhere. And you don’t want to sound like that. Be true to who you are and show some emotion. 
2. Do your research. Being prepared is absolutely necessary. Nowadays the Internet is not the only way employers find out about you. Some use social media to find out what you are about, so make sure you don’t have anything too crazy that could hinder your chances in the application and interview phase. On the other hand, while employers and hiring managers use social media a lot these days, level the playing field and do it too. Find out about their social presence and pick a few points you can talk about or mention during your interview.
3. Dress for the job you want, not the one you have. I know you heard this so many times, but it’s true – there is only one chance to make a good first impression, so use it wisely. Think of a look that fits the organization and its culture, at the same time something you are comfortable with. Some will say it is always better to overdress than to underdress, but I sincerely think what it really matters is that in the end you will not look (and feel) out of place. Find something that matches the company’s standard (again, use the net) and then see how that feels on you, making the necessary changes, always keeping in mind it is them you have to focus on, more than your persona. Last but not least, keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Don’t show off. That will not be seen as a sign of confidence. Actually, the other way around.
4. Be on time – that is, be EARLY. If you are driving, check the traffic before leaving. You should reach the place 15-20 minutes prior to your interview time. This way, you will have time to visit the restrooms, check your outfit, take a few deep breaths and relax. Be aware that being there more then 20 minutes early can be counterproductive, especially if other people are interviewed before.
5. Be calm, coherent and confident. This relates to what we said about the first impression. Provided you rehearsed, took information about the company and dressed properly, the rest will depend on you and you only. Remember, body language accounts for 55% of the overall communication. The tone of your voice, the way you speak, your rhythm, will account for about 35%. That is to say, 90% of your communication does not depend on what you say, it depends on how you say that (to be awfully precise, it is 93%, which is even more!) Focus on what you should outline, not on what you should avoid. Other, more important things are at play now. Focus on your goals, not on your performance. Do not let your ago steal the show. Answer honestly, say something you truly mean, make sure your level of engagement matches your words. That will come easy and natural if you duly practiced, as we said before. 
6. Ask questions. Asking job and company oriented questions has proven to be a good strategy. It shows that you have done your research and that you are curious. Another smart thing to do is to prepare some personal questions that speak more to your interview panels emotional and human side. For example, “What are 3 things you have learned within your role during your time with the company?”
   
7. Follow up. Always express your gratitude for the opportunity you have been granted. Remember to thank the interviewer and all the other people in person or, if that is not possible, write a thank you email. While this will not automatically land you the job, it will certainly give you an edge over the other candidates who didn’t do that. It is always good to be nice to people.

Following these tips will make you feel at ease. Last but not least, remember to experience this opportunity for what it really means and what it really is, something to enjoy and maximize. Avoid meeting such opportunities as something that happens only once in lifetime, the not-to-be-missed-train. Even if it was true, such an attitude will not help you at all, as putting a great deal of stress on yourself, will make your performance weaker.  In the end, what it really takes in a job interview is for you to show confidence, radiate positivity and be able to share examples of your working skills and qualifications for the job. In other words, confirm once again that what you said in your cover letter and your resume is actually true.

If I left any good ones that have worked or you, please share. I want to cultivate an environment of learning and conversation, so please don’t hold back. 

Follow these tips, play your cards and have a great time! And let us know how you make out!