Three Musts for Interview Prep

Before you pick out the perfect outfit, refresh your portfolio, and take a test drive to your interview location, there are three absolute musts to complete during your interview preparation.

Gather a big picture understanding of the company's scope and current work Exhaust all opportunities to learn about the company. Visit their website, scroll through their social media feeds, read the latest news, and see where they show up on the rest of the Internet. If you know someone who works for the company, call to see what they can share about the company culture and vision. Learn as must as you can to develop an overall understanding of the place you are hoping to work. No need to memorize important dates or be able to name every CEO since establishment, you just need to understand the company's trajectory to respond to interview questions and form your own.

Define why you are the best fit for the position Analyze the job description to gain insight into the employers dream candidate. Looking through the responsibilities and skills, define the unique qualifications which make you the best fit for the position. Form a clear, concise message in your mind to help you stay focused during your interview. When you are asked to "tell us a little about yourself" or even "why you are the best candidate" weave in this message.

Decide on three or four key experiences There is a very long list of interview questions an employer might ask you. Instead of trying to remember dozens of answers, pick three or four key experiences from your arsenal. Think through the story of these experiences, as stories are much easier to listen to and more relatable to the employer. The experiences you chose should clearly illustrate your skills, talents and lessons learned as they pertain to the position. During your interview, relate interview questions back to these experiences, when they make sense.

For more tips and training to ace your next interview, contact us.