Last week I had my first big-girl job interview! It's still too soon to know whether or not the position is mine, but if these people know what they're doing they'd be a fool not to let me slip away! ;)
I wouldn't necessarily say I'm a pro when it comes to interviewing, but I must say that with each one that I have that I learn something new. Thus, I present to you 10 interviewing tips to consider!
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1. Be prepared - The #1 most important thing you can do before an interview is prepare yourself!
2. Always bring 1 or 2 copies of your most current resume
3. First impressions matter - Some interviewers will notice the smallest things such as an overdue need for a manicure, and too much makeup. Try to look fresh and au naturale.
4. Do your research - Before my interview last week I visited the store and spent 45 minutes looking at the department in which I was interviewing to be a part of. Then, during my interview I knew what I was talking about and it showed my interviewer that I would make the extra effort to prepare.
5. Confidence - "Confidence makes the woman". If you present yourself in a manner that shows you know what you are capable, your interviewer will feel more confident in choosing you.
6. Differentiate yourself - I wore my bright teal blazer to the interview. After I found that I was competing against 6 other people I was glad that I did. If anything, hopefully she'll be able to remember and put my name to my face.
7. Tis better to be over-prepared than look like a fool - Going hand in hand with #1, always prepare a list of questions that you would like to ask your interviewer. Not only does it once again show that you're prepared, but it shows that you're engaged.
8. Remember, it is just as much them interviewing you as it is an interview for them.
9. Dot your Is and Cross Your Ts - I always bring that list of questions I've prepared with me in case I freeze on the spot. This last interview taught me to also bring a bullet list of projects I have worked on recently that will qualify me for the position.
10. Always, always always remember to follow up - Doesn't have to be anything intense, just a nice follow up email or phone call to thank them for considering you and let them know it was a pleasure to meet them. This also helps to set yourself apart from the crowd!
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Disclaimer: Following these tips will not 100% guarantee you will get the position, but it is 87% proven to be effective.
Note: 87% of all statistics are made up.
- How I Met Your Mother reference -
Did I miss any?
Did I miss any?
So glad you posted this today! I have an interview tomorrow and I'm super nervous! It's just for a sales associate at a fashion store but I'm still nervous. Especially with what to wear & makeup. Any ideas?
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing! I have been on quite a few interviews and have learned something new from each one! My worst pet peeve about interviewing is when the place you interviewed with doesn't follow up with me! I follow up and am told "we haven't made a decision yet' and they never call back. This one place I played phone tag with the lady for weeks and she never ended up returning my call. Rude!
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I hope you get the job!!!!
<3 Jamie
Great list! I always give similar advice to friends - this works whether you're interviewing for a job or even a leadership position, if you're still a university student like I am. Good job in your search to get your job :) New follower, by the way, nice to meet yo!
ReplyDeleteElise
I need this! I'm looking for a job and interview aren't my strong point. Thank You! I hope you get the job :)
ReplyDelete