10 tips to ace a job interview
Walking into an interview can be really intimidating, but having these 10 great actionable tips to ace a job interview can help you show your best self and land that role.
Research the company and position beforehand:
It’s important to understand the company’s mission and values, as well as the specific role you’re applying for. This will help you tailor your resume and interview responses to show how your skills align with the company’s needs.Dress professionally and arrive early:
First impressions are important, and dressing professionally and arriving early shows that you’re respectful of the interviewer’s time and serious about the opportunity.Bring a portfolio of your work:
A portfolio is a great way to showcase your skills and accomplishments. It can include things like writing samples, design work, or code snippets.Understand your skills and how they apply to the job:
Knowing your strengths and how they align with the role you’re applying for will help you communicate effectively with the interviewer.Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer:
Asking thoughtful questions shows that you’re engaged and interested in the opportunity.Remain positive, confident, and enthusiastic:
A positive attitude and confidence in your abilities can make a great impression on the interviewer.Listen carefully and answer questions concisely:
Listen carefully to the interviewer’s questions and answer them directly and concisely. Avoid rambling or getting off-topic.Show that you have a good understanding of the company:
Demonstrating that you understand the company’s mission, values, and industry can show that you’re a good fit for the role.Share examples of relevant skills, experiences, and successes:
Be ready to give specific examples of how your skills, experiences, and successes align with the role and the company.Follow up with a thank you note:
Send a thank-you note to the interviewer, either via email or traditional mail, to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role.
BONUS TIP: Never walk out of an interview without asking at least one question to the interviewer
Interviewing is a two-way street. Asking questions at the end of an interview can be a big opportunity to either impress the hiring manager with your thoughtfulness and preparation, or it can be an opportunity to blow it by asking something that shows you didn’t do your homework or even worse, that you seem uninterested in the job altogether.
So, go for your next interview prepared with some questions — and not just any random questions, but those that will show your interviewer that you’re excited about the position and that you can think on your feet during tough situations.
Our e-book 12 Questions to Ask at the End of a Job Interview – If You Really Want the Job covers questions job seekers should ask – and others they should not, to ace their interviews.
