5 Things you should do to prepare for an interview

Job interviews can be nerve-wrecking. You may start asking yourself, “Am I the perfect candidate? Do I even qualify? What kind of people are they looking for?” Being uncertain of the employer’s expectations can make you question if you are ready for the interview. We’re going to help you out. As a Staffing Firm, we are familiar with the interview process. We constantly see simple mistakes being made before the interview even happens. Here are 5 things you should do to prepare for an interview.

1. Research the Company

Even before you apply to a company, is to research it. Gain as much information as possible about the company in order to prepare yourself for the interview. Go on their website. Look for their mission statement. Find out what their goals are. You want to spend time on Google looking for recent articles concerning the business as well. Do so may lead you to recent events where the company may have sponsored something or took part in a special occasion. This type of news could lead to some interesting conversations with the interviewer.

Some common questions interviewers ask are:

• "What about our company peaked your interest?"
• "What Skills do you have do you feel could add value to our company?"
• "Are you aware of our current goals/mission?"

You want to be as prepared as possible for these types of questions. Interviewers like seeing candidates who have shown interest in their business. You could also research the interviewer themselves. Sometimes creating a personal_____ It gives you a chance to turn around and ask them questions about their business.

2. Ask yourself, what value do you bring to the business?

After researching the firm, you may have found what kind of challenges the business may be having. We propose a solution. Show the company the kind of value you bring to the table by presenting them your skillsets. An important key when going through the interview process is selling yourself. Using this information will help you look like a long-term asset.

Relate your skills to the job description and the company’s needs. Become completely confident in the skills you choose to present yourself with. Your resume provides the interviewer with a set of expectations. When presenting a solution, be sure that you can actually convert on it. Show them valuable numbers. Quantify your previous work, whether it is showing off the kind of profits you contributed to, or how your work was able to cut costs. Positive numbers will show proof of your value and will give you an advantage when interviewing for a position.

3. Print out a copy of your resume

When going to the interview, print out at least 3 copies of your resume. One for yourself, and two to share with your interviewer(s). Make sure your resume is both updated and relevant to the job you are applying for.

Your resume will be an outline for the interview. You can use it as a guide for when you are questioned. We recommend following our free resume guide. This template/guide has some helpful tips and recommendations from our recruiters.

4. Dress for Success

Too often do we see candidates go to an interview dressed inappropriately and unkempt. Get a haircut and put on your best suit. Shave off or shape up your beard. A clean look will give you an upper hand. Since it’s your first time interacting with the employer, you want to give off an excellent first impression. Not only should you wear the proper clothing, you should be wearing the proper expression. Look excited and wear a smile on your face. Show the interviewer you are excited for the opportunity and that you have a positive and approachable attitude.

5. Practice, practice, practice

Take the time to practice! Now you may be asking, how can you possibly practice an interview? Well, it’s actually pretty simple. Look up common questions that similar companies ask. Try answering them yourself. As you are answering these questions, try to be as creative as possible. Write down the first answer that comes to mind and then rewrite them. There’s a chance that the interviewer will be talking with other candidates. Establish yourself as a problem solver driving a memorable conversation.

Expert advice: Glassdoor and LinkedIn provide information for past candidates interviews including questions and tips on interview style. Take advantage of these posts to get a head start of the interview.

Make sure you practice your elevator pitch. Can you present yourself as a quality candidate in 30 seconds or less? For tips on how to create an elevator pitch, check out this link here.

There you have it, Engenium’s guide to the essential 5 tips to do before your interview. As a quick recap:

1. Research the business you are interviewing for.
2. Establish yourself as a problem solver and a value to the company.
3. Bring at least 3 copies of your resume.
4. Dress for success!
5. Practice answering common questions for your upcoming interview.

Follow these steps before your interview, we are certain that you will be well prepared. Go in with confidence, with these tips you are already ahead of the game.