5 Things to Know before Your Job Interview
There are many aspects to preparing for a job interview, from deciding what to wear to knowing how to get there. But there are 5 non-negotiable items that every candidate must know before they walk into a job interview, and these are:
1.) About Your Future Employer
Before you shake the hand of someone who could end up as your future boss, you should have done your background research on the company. A Google search is usually sufficient—your potential employer will most likely only expect you to know information about them that is common knowledge. Comprehensive knowledge of the company you are interviewing with will prevent you from getting in an awkward situation in which you as an obvious, wrong, or embarrassing question.
2.) How to Describe Your Work Experience
One of the topics that is going to arise in every job interview is your past work experience. You should not only be able to give a pitch of the highlights of your previous employment; but you should be able to do it in such a way that your interviewer is convinced of your qualifications for the job. Additionally, leave out an irrelevant experience—the purpose of the interview is to see if you and the company are a good fit, and this should be kept in mind in each of your answers.
3.) Your Own Resume
This may seem like a straightforward step; however, some time should be spent assuring you know your resume backwards and forwards before walking into an interview. If you were to be unsure of or list information that is inconsistent with what is on your resume it could cause major doubts in the mind of your interviewer.
4.) About the Job You Are Interviewing for
Similar to familiarizing yourself with the company you are interviewing with, you should also find out what you can about the job you are interviewing for. This research will prevent you from asking questions you should already know the answer to or applying for a position you are unqualified for.
5.) Questions for Your Interviewer
Asking your interviewer questions in return demonstrates that you are interested in the position and knowledgeable about the job you are applying for. Thinking of a handful of possible questions to ask can keep you from getting stumped when it is your turn to ask in the interview.
Sometimes nerves can kick in during an interview, leaving us performing at less than our best; but with preparation and taking care of these 5 items you can prevent having moments of panic and impress your interviewer.