Career
Emma Uchendu: 7 Important Things to Do Before an Interview
Be confident enough to clear all doubts and prove that your solutions work.
An interview session is simply a negotiation table where you discuss how your solutions can solve a company’s problem. Every organization has got a problem they need a solution for, thus the reason they are searching for an individual with the solution.
You are the solution, so do not go for an interview panicking. Be confident enough to clear all doubts and prove that your solutions work.
I already shared some tips on things to do after an interview. Here, I am taking it a step further to prepare you for things to do before an interview. To aid you effortlessly scale through the interview sessions. Without further ado, let’s take a straight dive into the issue of the day.
Carry out a thorough research about the firm
Research has shown that candidates with greater knowledge of a firm, its culture and industry, tend to get hired more than those who can say just a few words about them. And I believe you wouldn’t want to appear like a novice before the interviewing panel, fumbling with what to say just because you don’t know what the firm stands for. Therefore, it is advisable that you gather as much information as you can about the firm, its culture, the role you are being interview for, who your interviewer is, and what to expect generally. These would help you flow effortlessly, and succeed.
Rehearse standard interview questions
It is said that “practice makes perfect.” This is true. And when preparation meets opportunity, it results in success. Therefore, learning how to smoothly answer most of the basic interview questions like, ‘’May we meet you?” “Tell us about yourself?’’ and other generic ones is a must. Especially if you desire to smash your interview like a pro and come out smiling.
You have got to rehearse your answer to make sure you deliver it with so much poise, confidence and clarity. You also have to learn how to apply STAR and CARL Techniques in answering behavioral interview questions.
Learn to speak the language of the job/industry
Every industry or job role has its language. These are words or jargons peculiar to it. Attending an interview for the role of an accountant or lawyer, and speaking and answering questions without using any accounting or law jargons or terminologies is a total flop. Therefore, having yourself familiar with the unique terminologies of such jobs or industries is an advantage to you, as it positions you as the expert and professional that you are. It also shows you actually know and breathe the industry.
Prepare your questions
You don’t want start racking your brain to come up with questions when asked by the interviewer if you have any. Having a few ideas up your sleeve isn’t bad. This shows you are enthusiastic about joining the company and starting at the role you are being interviewed for.
Plan your journey
Plan out how you’ll get to the interview venue prior to the interview day. What route will be easier and less stressful? How many minutes will it take to arrive via that route? You don’t want to arrive the interview venue stressed and sweating like a Christmas goat, right? So check out public transport routes and their timetable. If you will be driving to the venue, find out the best route to the venue and where to park.
Don’t forget printouts of your documents
Make sure you have got print out of your CV with you, as well as any other supporting documents or information, like references or your portfolio. Make sure you also have a notepad and pen in your bag, in case you need to write or fill some documents straight up. Wouldn’t be ideal to ask an interviewer for a pen to write.
Dress appropriately
You have got to dress for the job you want. Make sure you’re dressed appropriately. And professionally, too. Make sure your dress is ironed to detail. It’s best to do this a night before the interview day. Get a fresh haircut or hair do. Brush your teeth; you want to speak and laugh confidently. So brush up. Have some Mentos ready to keep your breath ever fresh and green.
Finally, be confident in yourself. Do not let fear rein in your heart. Practice your negotiation skills. You do not want to short change yourself or undervalue your worth and pay.
Remember, interview sessions are a two-way road. They have a problem, and you have the solution. The interview is just a negotiation table on how your solution can solve their problem.
Give your best and believe the job will be yours. I hope this helped.
