Congratulations! You've updated your resume, found some jobs, applied online, and just heard back that you've moved onto the interview rounds. Here comes one of the most stressful yet rewarding part of the process: the interview. I truly believe the most important skill to achieving your dream job is having the ability to interview. Over the years, I've interviewed for internships, full time jobs, and minimum wage positions. I've even had the opportunity to interview candidates. Being on both sides of it, I've learned some tips and tricks that'll ensure success and I want to share that with you. In fact, starting this month, I'm even offering customized help on interview preparation. Click on let's chat to find out more!

Preparation

1. This is going to be the biggest portion when it comes to the interview skill.

   1. Attire

      One of the most prominent things about anyone is how you present yourself. This includes your attire, hair, make-up, posture, and how you carry yourself. My suggestion is to Google what employees at the company you're interviewing for generally wear and try to replicate that. I like to go with a simple business casual outfit. Typically, a blouse and slacks for women and a shirt, tie, and pants for men is enough to wow them away. Remember to add a nice pair of heels or shoes to elevate the outfit even further!

   2. Company Research

      When I was a senior in college, I was applying to every company located in NYC & Cali. I didn't care what they did; I just wanted to live in either of those locations. When I got to the interview rounds, I realized I had no idea what I was even getting myself into. To align with the company, I would do extensive company research that made a huge impression. Going through their website, clicking around to see their products and services, and finding the company's values is all you need. I would even write some of the points that stick out to you and write them on a notepad to bring up during the interview.

   3. List of Questions

      Making a list of questions is incredibly powerful since it shows that you've done your research, you're interested in the role, and curious to learn more. I would write these questions on your notepad to bring with you. Some options are to ask about the company culture and values, ask about the roles and responsibilities of the position you're applying for, and lastly ask about any extracurricular things such as employee resources, groups, events, etc.

   4. Prep "elevator pitch"

      More often than not, the first question the interviewer will ask you is "So, tell me a little bit about yourself?" They are trying to get a feel for who you are as a person, what you do, and how you reply to a general question like this. Why not prepare for it before the interview itself? Here's a sample template:

      Hi, I am name, a recent graduate from University Name with a degree in Major Name. I now work at Company Name as an Role Name as part of the program/team. This program enables me to expand my sales and business acumen while increasing my technical knowledge by learning about Company Name's architectures, products, and solutions.

During

1. Handshake and/or Rapport

   To be completely honest, the first couple of minutes of an interview are really awkward. It's almost like going on a blind date. To make it less intimidating, I want to encourage you to take control of the situation and start with a handshake and build rapport. Start off by saying "Hi I'm ____. It's a pleasure meeting you today" From there on, ask the interviewer about their weekend, any fun plans, weather, family, or anything life related. This establishes your presence and gets rid of the nerves you've been feeling for the past hour.

2. Introduction

   Within the first couple of minutes, the interviewer will introduce him/herself and ask you to do the same. This is where your elevator pitch comes into play. If you've rehearsed it a couple times, this becomes really easy. I like to share a fun fact with mine to give it a bit more flavor!

3. The actual interview

   Now the interviewer will probably start asking you more questions to ensure you're a great fit for the role. Be confident in your replies and talk only about what you know. If you need guidance during this portion, let's chat!

4. Ask at least 1-2 questions about role/company/culture/etc.

   Towards the end of the interview, they will often give you a chance to ask any questions you may have. Even if they don't, make a point to ask at least one question. Pull out your notepad and ask one that you feel most strongly about.

5. Get a timeline: "When can I expect to hear back?"

   Lastly, I want you to ask for a timeline on when you can hear back about next steps. This puts them accountable to get back to you in a timely manner and shows that you are interested in the position.

6. Thank you

   Of course, don't forget to thank them for their time!!

Follow-Up

1. Thank you email!

   Whether you're interviewing for a big corporate company or a small start-up, the impact of a follow-up email is tremendous. It doesn't have to be too long. A simple note thanking them for their time and following up with any questions you weren't able to answer goes a long way.

2. 1 week later - follow-up!

   If you haven't heard back within a weeks time, I encourage you to reach out via email again asking for any updates on the process.

Interviewing is a demanding process that can create a lot of stress in your life. If you're still having a hard time preparing, don't be afraid to reach out. As I've mentioned earlier, I'm currently offering a service to help with interview preparation. Here's a link to learn more about the process.