Interview Tips
When it comes to acing a job interview, preparation is key to your success, and there are a few important elements you should remember. Employers use the job-interview process to assess your past performance and as a predictor of your future performance. Based on your responses and other factors during the interview, the employer makes concrete hiring decisions in the best interest of the company.
- Research the company: Find out as much as you can about the company, including its mission & vision, products and services, customers served and its history.
- Dress for success: Make a great first impression by projecting an image that matches the industry and the requirement of the job you are seeking. Wear professional or business attire, but dress code can vary depending on the company.
- Prepare and practice interview questions: Research and prepare your responses to common and industry-specific and behavioral-interview questions. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel during the interview. Use the S.T.A.R method (Situation, Task, Action and Result) to organize your answers in a way that highlights your skills in your responses. Prepare 3-5 questions for the interviewer. Ask thoughtful questions at the end of the interview to show your enthusiasm for the job.
During the interview:
Maintain eye contact with the interviewer and everyone in the room, avoid fidgeting, and use hand gestures in moderation. Be confident, have a positive attitude, and be clear and direct with your answers. At the end of the interview, ask about the next steps and the process for following up.
Video Interviews:
Video interviews sometimes take the place of an in-person interview or may also be used for screening candidates. Dress professionally, and find a well-lit, quiet space free from distractions and interruptions. Some video interviews are one-way, and only you are present and doing all of the talking. You record your responses to a series of questions and submit them to the hiring manager.
Phone Interview:
Used to initially screen candidates, and are approximately 30 minutes in length. Prepare and practice, and dress the part as you would for an in-person interview.
After the interview:
Compose and send a thank-you note within 24 hours after a job interview. Include a sincere and specific expression of appreciation, and restate your interest in the job by highlighting your relevant qualifications. Mention specific and important details that came up in the interview, and rephrase any statements you made during the interview that may need clarification.
VIRTUAL – Preparing for the Interview
Interviewing begins with research and practice. Learn how to prepare for an interview, as well as how to present yourself and your skills in the best way possible!
Offering 3 virtual workshops to help you ace the interview; you can take any or all of them! Registration closes at noon the day before the workshop (Friday for Monday workshops); reserve your spot now!
We hope our interview tips have been helpful. For more complete information, please email KristinVossler@elpasoco.com
