Preparation is key to a successful new position.
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is not being prepared for an interview. From learning about the prospective employer to understanding the position, investing the time can determine whether or not you are considered a viable candidate.
1. Research the organization. The job may look perfect on paper, but the employer may be less than ideal. In addition to reviewing the company’s website page-by-page (including press releases for the most current information), sites like Glassdoor and Vault can provide more insight. It may help to make a list of pros and cons with what is being said by past and current employees. They should not form your opinion of the organization, but help you to understand the culture. How do they match up with your expectations?
2. Understand the industry. What does the company do? Is it successful? Who are its competitors? What does the future look like? Who are its customers? Look at social media sites and see what the company, its competitors, and industry organizations are saying to customers and other stakeholders.
3. Compare your resume to the job description. Make sure your skills align with those the organization is seeking. Highlight areas where you exceed the requirements and make note of the areas you can still develop. Be prepared to talk about accomplishments with confidence, and failures with candor.
4. Practice responses and prepare questions. Utilizing search tools like Google or Bing can provide additional information and resources to help you formulate responses and questions. Ask who you will be meeting with and research those individuals by reviewing their LinkedIn profiles and organization bios. What might their interest in this position be? What questions would they ask of you? You of them?
5. Dress to impress. Make sure to dress appropriately. While the world – and most likely the employer – is more casual, the old adage, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” still holds true.
6. Follow up! A timely email or a handwritten note thanking the interviewer(s) for his/her time is not optional. Recap some of the interview with assertions of your fit. And, if you meet with more than one person, make sure that your notes are personalized. Nothing says lazy more than the same note to different people.
How much time to commit to the preparation is up to you. When you feel confident with your knowledge of the company, understanding of the role, and your ability to represent yourself as the best candidate for the position, you are prepared.
Good luck!
