Most individuals get stressed before interviews. The clammy hands, shaky breath, butterflies… High schoolers, especially, have to attend interviews for college applications, internships, and/or jobs. Taking these certain steps to be prepared for an interview can drastically increase the likelihood of getting hired or accepted.
Research, Research, and More Research
Doing some homework to find background knowledge shows interviewers that the interviewee has an interest in being part of their company. Interviewers may ask questions about awareness and how they contribute to the mission of the company, according to The Balance Career. Researching the company or college, their impact, work culture, staff/alumni, and values can serve as helpful hints to answer these loaded questions. Most information can be found on their website and social media sites.
Prepare Answers to Interview Questions
In the anticipation of an interview, one’s nerves might cause them to stumble after hearing a question for the first time. Common interview questions could be available online, and practicing them beforehand can create a sense of confidence during the interview. Spending time to ponder and examine achievements and interests, will help to create the most thoughtful answers.
Be on Time
First impressions matter, and being punctual and put together could be a great way to start off the interview. It shows that the candidate sees the interview and job as a top priority. Better yet, get to the interview location early. The extra time can be used to, “go over questions [interviewees] have prepared, and run through [a] presentation (if applicable),” notes The Undercover Recruiter.
Keep Calm and Carry On
There may be a time in the interview where it doesn't seem to go as planned. The best method to perform when this happens might be to take a deep breath and continue with a positive attitude. Body language can reveal how a candidate feels, so it will be important to maintain eye contact, actively listen, and sit up straight, to show the interviewer the candidate stays engaged and upbeat.
Follow-Up With the Interviewer
Go the extra mile by sending a thank you note with any additional information that couldn’t be said during the interview. The simple gesture could help seal the deal. According to The Balance Career, “80% of hiring managers said it was helpful or somewhat helpful to receive a thank-you note after an interview.”
Interviews will get easier with practice and preparation. By making sure to keep a positive attitude and end the interview on a good note, the interviewer should surely consider you for the position, whether it be getting into a certain college or internship, or getting your dream job.
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