Five Must-Read Interview Tips for College Grads
Taking your first job interview can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety. You may have questions about what to wear, how to present yourself, and what to do if your mind goes blank, mid-sentence.
How do you prepare yourself to deal with whatever gets thrown your way? The first step is to take a deep breath and remember that everyone has been in your position at one time or another. The next step is to read through these five invaluable interview tips and give yourself a leg up on the competition!
1. Always Dress Professionally
You only get a few seconds to make a first impression, and what you wear has a big impact. Men should wear a blazer and tie or in a more formal environment such as finance, a suit and tie. Women may consider a midi or maxi dress, skirt and blouse, trousers, and appropriate closed toe shoes. Jeans and sneakers are not acceptable interview attire.
2. Do Your Research
The best way to set yourself apart from the crowd is by learning all you can about the company and the job for which you are interviewing. Thoroughly explore the website, do an Internet search and get an idea of the company’s culture. This will show prospective employers that you are truly interested in the position and will be an asset to the company.
3. Take Your Time Answering Questions
When you are asked a question in an interview, you do not need to rush into your answer. The quality of your answer far outweighs the speed with which you respond. It is perfectly acceptable to say, “May I think for a moment?” when asked a difficult question. This shows your prospective employer that you are able to assess difficult situations and think through appropriate solutions.
4. Ask Questions
Always come to an interview with a list of questions. Print the questions out to show that you’ve spent time preparing and are serious about the job. Base your questions off of the research you did on the company and the job description.
5. Be Yourself!
If you are offered a job and accept it, you will be spending a good portion of each day in the office or working remotely with other team members. You want to make sure that you are not only a good fit for the company, but the company is a good fit for you!
Study these five tips and take them to heart because they are a key piece to landing your dream job. Remember to always be yourself, be confident, and be prepared for anything an interviewer could throw your way. Finally, never underestimate the power of a genuine smile, strong handshake, and great attitude. Good luck!