Employment

Top 5 Things to do before an Interview

One of the most important goals of a good resume is to help you obtain a job interview. Nevertheless, it doesn’t accomplish anything to build a resume that gets you in front of the hiring manager if you don’t make a good impression and sell yourself during the interview. Listed below are five of the top things you need to do to nail the interview and get the job.

1. Research the Job, Company and Interviewer

The more you know about the company that you are interviewing with and the job you are applying for, the more intelligent you can appear during the interview. It is also wise to learn as much about the personality and preferences of the interviewer. This research will also help prepare you for creating a list of questions which is the next thing that needs to be done.

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2. Prepare a List of Thoughtful, Engaging Questions

One of the most impressive things you can do in an interview is to ask really good questions to show that you have done your research and are engaged and excited about the prospects of working for the company. Make sure the questions are intelligent and thought provoking.  Questions give you the opportunity to show your enthusiasm and get the interviewer to concentrate on selling you on the job opportunity instead of putting the entire emphasis on you selling yourself.

3. Anticipate the Questions you will be asked by the Interviewer.

It is common for interviewers to ask questions like “what is your biggest weakness?”, “Where do you see yourself in five years?” and “Why do you want this job?” You should put a lot of thought into these questions and answer them confidently. Be prepared to talk about your past experience and successes in an articulate and compelling manner. Have good answers ready about employment gaps and why you left your last job.

4. Practice Role Playing with a Peer

Get a friend or spouse to help you roll play as you prepare to answer questions and ask questions. You need to get comfortable answering questions in a concise manner within an interview setting. Practise maintaining eye contact while responding to questions in a relaxed and confident way. Be sure to use terminology that is used in the industry that the company is involved in.

5. Show Up on Time in the Best Mental and Physical Condition

Obviously, you need to dress for success and look sharp. Normally you will dress similarly to how you would be expected to show up for work. Be sure to get there on time. Get to bed early the night before so that you look rested, healthy and alert for the interview. Have a copy of your resume with you in case the interviewer has misplaced it.

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It is important to visualize in your mind having a successful interview just like successful athlete use positive visualization to compete well. Visualization can reduce nervousness and help you to actually enjoy the exchange that takes place in the interview. By having positive expectations and doing the five things listed above, you can greatly increase the chances of having a successful interview and landing your dream job.

ABOUT AUTHOR: 

Linda Hildebrant is the Associate Director of Internet Marketing for Resume.com, where you can build and post your resume online. She has had several years of experience in teaching people how to build their resumes. When she is not writing about resume tips, she likes to shop and travel.

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