How to Achieve Success in the Big Interview

People are afraid and anxious before and during interviews because they are concerned about what the interview could mean for them. An interview is an opportunity for a better job or a better life; performing well in this interview could mean the difference between a good job and a good life. Anxiety is caused by the fear of failure, which we have all experienced at some point in our lives. The opportunity was only obtained through hard work and dedication. Whether it was in college, an entry-level position, or a position you have held for a while, a lot of time and dedication has resulted in an opportunity for a new position or promotion. This interview has a lot riding on it. I’d like to share some helpful hints that enabled me to obtain numerous offers for companies in a wide range of industries. My hope is that these helpful hints will assist you in landing a job in your desired field.

There is no such thing as being over-prepared for an interview. Anxiety and stress can be reduced by being prepared. When you truly understand what you’re talking about, it’s easy to speak with confidence. With today’s technology, it’s simple to determine what kind of background your interviewer has. Examine the individual’s LinkedIn profile. With this information, you should be able to connect with the person you’re meeting with and have a meaningful, professional conversation. Take a look at the job description as well as the people who currently hold that position in the company. If you look at multiple profiles of people in this position, you will begin to notice trends in the experience that recruiters and interviewers are looking for in you. After reviewing the job descriptions and profiles, learn about the company’s history as well as the people who have shaped the industry into which you are venturing. For example, prior to an interview with a major transportation company, I researched some of the obstacles that the company had overcome. I read an article about a government regulation requiring Electronic Driver Logs, which resulted in a drop in revenue for transportation companies. I created questions based on this knowledge to demonstrate that I was knowledgeable about the industry and prepared for the interview. Before I left the building, they informed me that I had been hired. Preparedness goes a long way toward making an impression on the people you meet.

Once you’re in the interview, make sure you’re dressed appropriately. Dress appropriately for the job you want. It is preferable to overdress than underdress. First impressions are formed in less than 20 seconds. 5 of those seconds are spent inspecting your clothing and shaking your hand. It is critical to dress appropriately!

After you’ve prepared and made your first impressions, it’s time to show off your accomplishments, knowledge, and personality. Your preparation for this meeting will either make or break you. Determine which accomplishments to highlight and which strengths to demonstrate. When asked a question, do not simply respond with your opinion; instead, relate your opinion to a scenario or accomplishment. As an example, consider the following: “Do you prefer to work as an individual or as part of a team?” “Personally, I perform better as a member of a team. I was a member of a cyber law team while serving in the United States military. Because of how we encouraged one another, we were able to complete a variety of tasks. Because I constantly encouraged my comrades, I was eventually promoted to Squad Leader. As a team member, I received an accommodation medal for leading multiple successful missions.” Take note of how the example ended with a reference to the original question. It’s easy to get caught up in your story and lose sight of the question at hand. However, if you can clearly define the relevance, you will be able to highlight why you are the best candidate.

Giving handwritten thank you notes after your interview will make you memorable. When I graduated from college, I sent thank you notes to everyone I interviewed with in person. I received 22 offers, with roughly half of them mentioning the thank you notes. Few candidates write thank you notes by hand. If you do, even if your interview was average, you will stand out and be remembered. Being remembered favorably is how you will be hired.

My hope is that you have gained some insight into how to land a job and be confident in an interview. I want you to get the job of your dreams or a job in your dream industry. If you remember these tips and put them into practice, you will have a good chance of reaching your objectives.