10 Tips For Mastering Interviews

Interviewing is a tough time in a person’s life. You want to give a good first impression while at the same time you want to learn more about the potential opportunity and the people you might be working with.

It’s also a time when you have to keep some information close to the vest, like how much money you want, and be completely upfront about other information. All this while still trying to impress can be a tall order.

Here are 10 tips for mastering interviews:

1. Research the company. There are many resources available for you to find as much information about the company and the opportunity as possible. Research them online, review periodicals and network to find out what there is to know about the company. This will make you look educated and interested in the position and will help you with the next tip.
2. Prepare a list of questions to ask. What do you want to know about the company and the opportunity? Make sure to come with a few questions. This helps give the interviewer something to talk about and it makes you seem more interested in the position and proactive.
3. Practice & prepare your answers. You know many of the questions you’re going to be asked. Prepare your answers in advance and practice them. If you have a friend or family member that can help, enlist them and hold mock interviews.
4. Dress appropriately. Dress for the company, the opportunity, and the interviewer. If you’re interviewing with a fashion company or a creative position then it’s important to dress for the role. If you’re interviewing for a management or accountant position then traditional suits are appropriate. When in doubt, overdress.
5. Know who you’re interviewing with. You know the company you’re interviewing with and the opportunity you’re interviewing for. Do you know the interviewer? Find out as much as you can about the people you’re going to be meeting with. This may help you prepare some appropriate and relevant questions.
6. Stay positive. People are attracted to positive and optimistic people. When you’re interacting with the interviewer and responding to their questions, stay positive.
7. Relax. Yes, interviewing is stressful. However, the more relaxed you are the more productive the entire experience will be for everyone. You relax and everyone else will relax too.
8. Come prepared with the proper information. Come prepared with business cards, a notebook, and a pen for taking notes and a few resumes and references.
9. Take notes. If you have any questions, write them down as you make your way through the interview. That way you don’t have to interrupt the interviewer and can ask the questions when it’s appropriate to do so. Also, taking notes will help you communicate with the company during follow-up conversations.
10. Thank everyone for their time and consideration. Always be gracious.

Interviewing is a skill that can be improved with practice. Be yourself. Do your best and follow these ten tips for a great interview.