Congratulations! You just received a call from a hiring manager asking you to attend the first round of interviews. An experienced hiring manager once told me that the number one mistake job applicants make is showing up to an interview unprepared and use a lot of “ums” and “ahs” throughout. Worst of all, candidates like these don’t actually answer questions that are asked and instead go off on tangents. Interview preparation is crucial, and there are a few important things that you will have to keep in mind when preparing for a job interview.
Job interviewing is a daunting experience. Here are some job interview preparation tips to help you get yourself all set and ready.
Learn More About the Company:
Keep in mind that the interview process will not be all about you. Employers want to know why you want to work for their company and what you can contribute towards the growth of their business. A good way to be prepared for this is to study the company profile. Learn the background of the company, its achievements, its “head honchos”, its products, services and other relevant issues.
A great tip is to gain an understanding of the company’s mission and vision so you can customize your answer to fit their requirements. This will also help you in deciding if this company is where you want to work. Don’t forget to vary your research on the company. While the company website is a good place to start, it is where your competition will also be looking. Use your initiative to find information about the company that your competitors may not know.
Learn More About the Actual Job Position:
The interviewer will be asking questions to find out your knowledge about the actual job position and see if you are able to fulfill the role. Investigate and study the job position. Search online for similar jobs and learn more about the skills that are required. Best of all, reach out to your network and speak with people who have actually performed your particular role. The more knowledge you can have going into the interview, the greater your chances of finding success.
Study Common Interview Questions:
Take time to study interview questions and mentally begin to prepare your answers. The worst possible mistake is “umming” and “ahhing” throughout the job interview. Not only do you come across as unprepared, but you also come across as someone who is unable to think quickly on their feet.
Top 10 Most Common Interview Questions:
1. Tell me about yourself?
2. What did you like or dislike about your previous job?
3. What is your greatest weakness?
4. What is your greatest strength?
5. Describe a difficult situation and how you overcame it?
6. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
7. Why do you want to work for this company?
8. What would your previous co-workers say about you?
9. Do you work well under pressure?
10. Why should we hire you?
