Pass the Second Barrier to Career Success by Acing Your In-Person Interview
Having been in the industry for numerous years and experiencing the interview process from both sides of the table, we understand that in-person interviews can be nerve-wracking. Even if you have been over the process multiple times within your professional career, you can still find yourself feeling a little nervous before it happens.
The best way to appease those nervous butterflies and ace your interview is preparation. Considering that the interview is a critical part of the interviewing process, it requires your focus. You need to demonstrate your enthusiasm, relate your achievements, and experience with your skills, and articulate your eligibility for the position.
1. Begin with research
Often neglected, it is important that you spend some time researching the company and its culture along with the industry it operates in. The company’s website, social media accounts and press releases should provide you enough information. If you can obtain the names of the interviewers, review their LinkedIn profiles and available Bio’s.
2. Revisit the job description and your resume
Most people tend to adjust and expand their resumes as they gain more experience without re-reading what they had put down earlier. Just to make sure nothing is poorly worded or missing, give your resume a second glance. As for revisiting the job description, it will help you come up with answers and examples of how your experience and skills apply.
3. Practice your answers to commonly asked questions
There are numerous lists available across the internet of questions that most people are asked during in-person interviews. From “why are you suitable for this position” to “what are some of the challenges you faced”, practice your answers to make sure you articulate everything relevant.
4. Dress accordingly
Not all companies will be looking for interviewees to come dressed in business formal attire for their in-person interviews. The dress code depends on the company’s culture. You can always ask the recruiter if you are not sure. Plan your outfit a day ahead and make sure you are presentable.
5. Arrive early
This goes without saying but arriving early will help you calm down and get your nerves in check. If the interview location is far from your residence or is in a neighborhood, you are not familiar with, leave even earlier than the time required to reach your destination.
6. Greet the entire panel
If you are in-person interview has more than one interviewer on the panel, make sure you greet and introduce yourself to everyone. A strong handshake and warm smile will show that you are confident and glad to be there.
7. Be genuine and authentic
Interviewers, especially recruiters are well-versed in the art of observing body language along with how you answer questions. When you answer truthfully and remain authentic throughout your interview, they will see that as a positive attribute. Focus on your experiences, achievements, and background and how they make you an eligible candidate.
8. Do not talk negatively about your previous employers
This is a big interview no-no. If your experience with your current or previous employers has not been positive, focus on what you gained from them. Present them as challenges that you overcame instead of badmouthing the company.
9. Keep it concise
It is very easy for an in-person interview to go into unrelated tangents. Be mindful to not ramble on. Keep your answers concise and relevant to the question. However, do not be robotic and give one- or two-syllable answers.
10. Do not overthink your body language
Yes, there is such a thing as being hyperaware of your surroundings. When that happens, you end up overthinking every small movement you make. This ends up making people even more nervous than they actually are. Just sit straight and try to not move your hands too much. That’s it.
11. Ask questions!
Your research will come in handy here. Whether it is about the company, a recent press release, industry disruption, or the position you are applying for, ask a question. This will show your interest and enthusiasm once again as the interviewers wrap things up.
12. Say your thank you’s
And lastly, do not forget to thank the interviewer/s when you are leaving the room. This will also be a good moment to ask them when you can expect to hear from them.
