Best Ways to Prepare for an Interview

I think the most important thing to remember about job interviews is that they are basically a sales situation. You, as the job-seeker, must make a strong sales pitch about how you are the perfect person for the job — and then you need to close the deal by getting the job offer. I know a lot of job-seekers get uncomfortable thinking of having to sell themselves to prospective employers, but that’s really the truth of it. But remember that selling is not all about you, it’s also doing the proper research to fully understand the employer and his/her needs … so be sure and do your research. And by the way, the employer also sees the interview as a sales tool — trying to sell you on the position and the firm.

Within that framework, here are some other important do’s and don’ts of interview:

• Do your research and know the type of job interview you will be encountering. And do prepare and practice for the interview, but don’t memorize your answers.
• Do bring extra resumes to the interview.
• Do make good eye contact with your interviewer(s). And do smile.
• Do show enthusiasm in the position and the company.
• Don’t be soft-spoken. A forceful voice projects confidence.
• Do have a high confidence and energy level, but don’t be overly aggressive.
• Don’t act as though you would take any job or are desperate for employment.
• Don’t answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no.” Explain whenever possible. Describe those things about yourself that showcase your talents, skills, and determination. Give examples. Tell stories.
• Do close the interview by telling the interviewer(s) that you want the job and asking about the next step in the process.

Read more in my article, published on Quintessential Careers: Job Interviewing Do’s and Don’ts.

And for lots more tools, advice, and resources on all aspects and all types of interviews, go to this section of Quintessential Careers: Guide to Job Interviewing Resources.