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Stories abound of uncomfortable interview moments, but you don’t have to become a casualty. With the right preparation, you can play it cool as a cucumber. Here are six tips to help you ace that next job interview.
1. Know your audience.
A quick Google search or LinkedIn snoop can give you insight on what to expect, not only at the interview, but of the whole company. Informing yourself on these details will show that you’ve done your homework and are excited about the company. You don’t want to seem creepy or like a “teacher’s pet,” but you can ask questions to show that you researched what the company does, your interviewer’s role and background and what you could glean about company culture. It will also give you a better sense of whether or not the company would be a good fit for you!
2. Test the product(s).
Knowing the strengths and areas for improvement of the product(s) will give you an informed perspective on what questions to ask and where you could possibly add value. Both of these things show that you are a critical thinker and, again, that you did your homework. You’ll also be able to highlight things you like about the product (flattery is never a bad thing!). Lastly, you can continue to qualify whether the company is where you want to be and what you want to be working on.
3. Have a career story.
People tend to remember a good story. You want your interviewer to remember you! Metaphorically walk them through your resume in a way that weaves together your career path and highlights your achievements and strengths. Aim to show, rather than tell. If you want your interviewer to know you would make a good curriculum designer, highlight when you designed, created and managed a system of content (or other relevant experiences).
4. Always be relevant.
This is particularly important if you’re transitioning to a new career. Frame your answers using specific examples where you can pinpoint some of your greatest strengths and apply them to the role you’re interviewing for.
5. Rehearse your answers.
Power pose and mirror affirmations, people. Now that you have a story, rehearse “your spiel” so you can get comfortable with how you look and feel saying it. Research common questions for interviews of your particular role, and practice your answers. This will help you work out the kinks and feel confident in your responses. Even if you feel silly or your answer isn’t perfect, fake it till you make it. It really does work.
Pro tip: Sit down with a friend or colleague for a mock interview beforehand.
6. Know your worth, and ask for it.
The interview process is your chance to set the tone for what you deem to be fair compensation. Research what is fair for your role, expertise and level. Then aim a little higher to give yourself room to negotiate. If you feel uncomfortable going high, suggest a range.
Interviews can be funny, stressful, great or awful. The most important thing you can do is to be as prepared as possible. Hopefully these tips will give you a good starting place. Go in there and kill it. We’re all rooting for you!
