PART I
Being well-prepared for the interview is always a ‘must do’ if you are serious about getting the job. First and foremost, pick a business attire that will impress the interview panel (Business Professional is highly recommended for 99% of interviews – unless the position is for a farm hand). When choosing your attire be sure to utilize solid colors and avoid patterns. We realize not everyone can afford a perfectly tailored suit or even a blazer so a few ideas that may help are going to a local Thrift Store (there’re so many suits available there for minimal cost), rent a suit from your local tuxedo store or if you’re truly desperate, “buy” a suit, keep the tag and return it after you’re done with the interview [Dear Retailers, we are not condoning or admitting to this practice but sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures]. Be sure to arrive early (15 minutes early is on-time), have a few hard copies of your resume ready to pass out to the interview panel and ensure you have one extra for yourself in order to utilize and reflect on when answering questions, and most importantly, don’t rush when answering the questions (it’s okay to ask the interviewer for clarification or to repeat the question if you’re not sure what they’re asking). With interview questions, we find that people don’t understand the full extent of the question and/or only answer a portion of the question so be extra conscientious of the question(s) that are being asked and ensure your answers fully address them.
Research is vital… Many candidates often overlook the fact that the employers expect candidates to have a general idea of what the company does and what the candidate’s general duties will entail. In fact, it only takes a few minutes to do some research on the company when preparing for the upcoming interview with them. Understanding its values and mission will demonstrate a candidate’s genuine interest in the best way possible. Additionally, it only takes a few minutes to go over the description of the job posting which includes duties and responsibilities so if you’re unsure of a task, make notes of potential questions to ask the interviewer(s). Think of how the position will align with your experience, qualifications and desired professional growth opportunities. If you are not sure then a good follow-up question to ask the board will be the following: What qualities are you looking for in your ideal candidate for this role? That question will help you to assess how well you match the role and will give you the opportunity to reassure your employer that you are precisely who they are looking for. The board wants to see the confidence and desire you have to be a part of their organization. Don’t just assume that because you show up for the interview, it automatically means that the employer will believe in your commitment to secure the position. You have to go an extra mile to prepare in order to stand out in a highly competitive environment. When responding to answers use the key words “we” and “us” as it gives them the subconscious understanding that you’re already on the team in your mind. Next, employers will generally go over your day-to-day job duties; however, if that is not the case, then note this as a follow-up question. What does the typical day-to-day look like in this department? The interviewer will never turn that question down, and that is a great question to ask and be informed. The interview might be overwhelming, but it is important to stay positive and authentic. Often the employers are looking not only for the experience but also for good personalities that will align within the team. You might be just what they are looking for if you stay your true self and show excitement. Don’t give up too early and remember it’s a two-way process.