
After the seemingly endless task of searching and applying for open positions, landing an interview can seem like the end of the road, but that’s only half the battle. Your application may have gotten you through the door, but interviews are where decisions are made. Here are some of the best things to do before, during, and after a job interview to help you land your dream position.
What to do Before a Job Interview
Research the Company
You probably did some cursory research before applying, but dig in a little deeper before you go to the interview. You should know what the company does and what the job requires. Having knowledge about the company will give a strong impression that you’ve done some homework and are taking the role seriously.
Practice Answering Questions
Job interviewers tend to ask the same questions, so prepare yourself by crafting answers for these. Even if the interviewer doesn’t ask the exact questions you’ve prepared for, practicing should get your more confident and comfortable and get you in the right headspace to make a good impression.
Get Physically Prepared
Interviews are as much about how you present yourself as what you say. Companies usually hire candidates that look the part, so prepare by choosing an appropriate outfit. Don’t forget to iron or steam it so it has no wrinkles. You should also print out your resume and cover letter. The company probably will do this, but having an extra copy yourself is also handy.
What to do During a Job Interview
Show Up on Time
Being late to an interview is one of the worst first impressions you can make. While companies may forgive a freak incident like a pile-up on the highway or a medical emergency, showing up early or on time gives them a better impression. If you’re doing an in-person interview, plan the route and account for extra time for traffic. If it’s a virtual interview, make sure you know how to sign in and that your camera and audio are working correctly prior to the interview.
Be Polite and Professional
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when you go to an interview is not staying polite and professional the entire time. Don’t extend this just to whose interviewing you are either. You should be on your A-game with every person you interact with, from the receptionist to the interviewer. Being rude or even too friendly and familiar can be a turn-off. It’s okay to laugh and get comfortable, but remember you’re there for a job, not to make friends.
Ask Questions
The worst mistake you can make is not coming prepared with questions of your own to ask. There will inevitably come a point in the interview where they ask if you have any questions for them. Absolutely do not say “no!”. Come prepared with three to five questions to ask them. Make them specific to the company and job instead of general ones. This shows you’re actually interested in this position and not just in getting hired in general.
What to do After a Job Interview
Send a Thank You Follow-Up
It’s considered polite to send a thank you follow-up message after the interview. It’s best to do this within 24-48 hours after the interview. Not only does it show good manners, but it also shows that you’re interested in the position still. Remember that the hiring process can take months for some positions, so don’t follow up too frequently.
Make it Personal
When you send your follow-up message, try to personalize it. Mention something that was brought up during the interview so that they don’t think it’s a general “thank you” message. If you feel you forgot to mention anything during the interview, this is a good time to bring it up too.
Stay Polished
It’s important to remember that interviewing is just one step in the hiring process. Hiring can take a while, so even if you blow their socks off, they still need to see other candidates. Don’t get tossed out of the running by making a stupid social media post or public comment. There have been tons of examples of people losing out on a job because they bashed the company or behaved poorly online after the interview. Stay polished and professional throughout the whole process.
If you’re looking for a new job, contact Nova Staffing today! Our team of recruitment experts is always looking for qualified candidates. You can also check out our online job board to see if there is a position that fits your needs.