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The interview is a crucial stage every job seeker must go through, and how to stand out in an interview and land the desired position is a major concern for many candidates. Whether applying for a large corporation or a startup, both the preparation and performance during the interview are critical.
Before the Interview: Preparation is the First Step to Success
*Image sourced from the interne
Research the Company and Job Requirements
Before the interview, it is crucial to research the company you are applying to and understand its culture. Visit the company's website, news reports, social media, and employee review sites (like Glassdoor) to learn about its history, mission, products, competitors, and industry trends. Make sure you understand the job responsibilities and requirements, and be prepared with specific examples of how you can add value to the company.
Reflect on Your Skills and Achievements
Most of the interview questions will revolve around your skills and how they translate into past job successes. Spend time reflecting on your top skills and achievements, especially those with quantifiable results. Additionally, prepare an interesting story for each of your key skills, illustrating how you used them in specific situations.
Practice with Mock Interviews
Prepare for common interview questions like, "Why did you choose this position?" "How do you handle challenges and pressure?" "Tell us about your team collaboration experience." Practicing these questions can help you answer more naturally and appear more confident during the interview. You can also ask friends or classmates to role-play the interview scenario to familiarize yourself with the process.
Prepare Your Own Questions
In the interview, the interviewer will often ask, "Do you have any questions for us?" Don’t just say "No." Prepare some thoughtful questions, such as, "What specific initiatives does your company have regarding team collaboration?" or "What challenges might this role face in the future?" These questions not only demonstrate your interest in the company and position but also show your thinking and career planning for the role.
During the Interview: Showcase Your Best Self
*Image sourced from the interne
Arrive at Least 15 Minutes Early
Arriving on time is not only important for setting a relaxed tone, but it also gives you extra time to review your notes if needed. This also leaves a positive impression on the recruiter.
Be Confident and Authentic
During the interview, it is crucial to present yourself confidently and professionally. However, avoid being overly polished or fake—stay genuine. Maintain eye contact, smile, speak at a moderate pace, and leave a confident yet humble impression. When answering questions, keep your responses concise and clear, and use real examples to demonstrate your abilities and experience.
Behavioral Interviewing: The STAR Method
Many interviewers use behavioral interviewing techniques, which involve asking questions about past experiences to predict your future job performance. Use the STAR method to answer these questions:
The STAR method helps you clearly demonstrate your thinking and problem-solving abilities when faced with challenges.
After the Interview: Follow-Up is Key to Success
*Image sourced from the interne
Send a Thank-You Note
After the interview, sending a timely thank-you note is an important step. It not only shows your gratitude for the interview opportunity but also reinforces your interest in the position. In the thank-you note, briefly recap the highlights of the interview, reiterate how you can excel in the role, and thank the interviewer for their time and opportunity.
Be Proactive and Stay in Touch
If the interviewer promises to provide feedback at a specific time, follow up with a polite email to inquire about the outcome after that time. If you haven't received feedback yet, remain patient and avoid following up too frequently. Additionally, you can maintain contact with the interviewer via LinkedIn or other platforms, showcasing your ongoing professional interest and initiative.
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