When you imagine an interview, you might picture sitting down at a table across from someone in a sharp business suit, answering questions. But did you know that the interview begins long before that? The moment you pull into the parking lot, the interview has already begun.
Preparing to pass the interview before the interview will increase your odds of being selected for the position. Here are some simple tips to increase your chances.
1. Practice Answering Questions Ahead of Time
Most interviewers ask the same questions as every other interviewer. By identifying the most common questions, it’s easy to prepare your answers in advance, which takes a lot of stress out of the experience! A simple Google search for popular interview questions and answers is a great starting point.
If you’re interviewing with a large or popular company, you may even be able to find lists of their usual interview questions online. Forums like Reddit or websites like Glassdoor contain threads from previous interviewees who are happy to share their experiences with other candidates.
Lastly, try Perfect Interview, a free, 24/7 mock-interview simulator that you can access from home. Using webcam technology, it will coach you on proper interview answers and allow you to see yourself from the interviewer’s perspective.
2. Bring Multiple Copies of Your Resume
It’s customary to hand a copy of your resume to each person at the interview. Printing the resume on professional resume paper is a nice flourish in helping yours stand out from the rest. Be sure you have extra copies of any other important documents, such as letters of recommendation and your cover letter, in case these are requested. Store your documents in a professional portfolio.
3. Know Your Route
Nothing is more stressful than missing your turn, driving across multiple parking lots, or rushing through a building trying to find your interview location! Locate the street, building, floor, and office of your interview at least one day beforehand. Being familiar will also give you a sense of calm and control when you arrive on the big day. Whether you choose the fastest route or the most comfortable route, be sure you know where you’re going the day-of.
4. Eat Lightly, But Think Carefully About Caffeine
Even if you have butterflies, try to put something light but protein-rich in your stomach prior to the interview to fuel your body and mind, such as a protein bar, yogurt cup, sandwich, smoothie, trail mix, or nuts. Caffeine might help you wake up and remain alert during the conversation but could also give you jitters! Know yourself. Use your best judgement and caffeinate accordingly.
5. Arrive Early
It’s best to arrive at least 10 minutes early to your interview, unless the instructions specifically request a different time. This will give you plenty of opportunity to catch your breath, relax, use the bathroom, drink some water, and make a great first impression of timeliness and preparation.
6. Greet the Receptionist
Know that manners count, big time. Everyone in the organization probably talks to each other. If there is a front desk receptionist, treat them with the same level of respect you would your interviewer. Rest assured that the interviewer will ask the receptionist what they thought of you and whether you were rude to them. Know that the interview begins the moment you step into the building.
7. Watch Your Body Language
While in the waiting room to be called, be mindful of how you stand, walk, and sit. Maintain good posture, don’t slouch in your chair, and avoid impulsively checking your phone or watch (which may signal boredom). Tapping your foot, for example, might indicate you’re impatient or antsy. Choose a chair that faces the office so that the interviewer will be looking at you head-on when they approach you.
8. Assume Whoever Approaches You is Your Interviewer
You may not know your interviewer by face or name. Assume whoever approaches will be interviewing you. Make eye contact with them, smile, and show attentiveness. This way, you’ll create a magnetic first impression from the start.
9. Politely Refuse Beverages
You may be offered a beverage as part of the interview process or while waiting in the room. In almost all cases, it’s safest to politely refrain. Your hands and mouth should remain free, as you may be called a moment’s notice into the interview. Furthermore, an accidental spill on the table or the office floor may hurt your professionalism.
10. Avoid Candy and Gum
Noticeably chewing gum can dock points from your evaluation. Your mouth needs to be ready to speak clearly. Make sure you finish any breath mints before stepping into the waiting room, and avoid actively chewing on anything throughout the interview process.
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