Preparing Yourself for a Job Interview

Either it’s your first job interview or not, a simple preparation can be handy, especially if it is indeed your first job interview. Don’t let yourself come empty handed. Check out some down-to-earth tips on preparing your self prior and on the D-day:

 Prior the D-day

1. Keep up the confidence.

I met some people who instead of got excited after they received a job interview call, they got very nervous and unsure if they would suitable for the position. Here’s my secret mantra: If they invite you for a job interview, it means they consider you qualified. Just show up and do your best in presenting yourself, the rest is none of your business. So don’t waste your time and energy worrying if you are going to make it or not.

 2. Small research for big impression

Usually, during the interview session, they will ask your opinion about the company or organization you are going to work for. The typical question usually would be What do you know about our company/organization? Or Could you tell us why you are interested in joining our company/organization?. Just like I said in the beginning, don’t come to the interview empty handed. Use your time prior the D day to Google or browse the company’s website. Take notes on the company profile, their main business even if it is needed, their competitors. If you could come up with such knowledge it would give them a very nice impression and it would show your eagerness in joining them.

 3. Survey the venue

Sounds a little bit too much isn’t it? But let me tell you this, some people who do this before they go to the interview venue find this helpful and at least they show up on time. Often we don’t’ really know the exact office location of the company we aim to work for. If this happens to you, please don’t hesitate to ask for the complete address. Then try to consider these things below:

-         Are you going to take a bus or a cab or your car?

-         If you take a bus, make sure you know which one going to the desired route

-         If you take a car, make sure you know the parking area

-         Considering the distance and traffic jam, what time is best for you to leave the house?

 4. Practice makes perfect

 You can browse the internet for some ‘FAQs on job interview’ and practice responding to those questions in a professional yet simple manner. You can also ask a friend or a family member to do some role play to help you practice answering those questions.  

 On the D-day

1. Make sure you eat your breakfast. Most job interviews take place in the morning. A good breakfast will help you start the day and perform well throughout the day.
2. Dress smart and don’t overdo. Less is more, so pick accessories that will compliment your attire – not overwhelm it. If you think perfume is necessary, wear one with humble scent.
3. Stay calm
4. Bring a paper and a pen with a small note book for note taking, a copy of your resume and your portfolio
5. Be on time
6. As a follow up, send them a thank you e-mail. When you get home or within 24 hours after you got interviewed, send a thank you e-mail to the person who interviewed you. This is a good gesture that shows them your appreciation for the job interview invitation.

 Then what? The company usually asks you to wait for one or two weeks for the interview result. But this doesn’t apply to all companies. Some will never contact you after the interview if they think you are not competent for the position. So if the second case happens, please know that it is always OK for you to take the initiative to make a follow-up phone call at least a week after you got interviewed. This will save your time and energy so you can move on to the next job opportunity. Good luck!

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