Got a job interview?

Congratulations. You are now one step closer to securing a new job.

But the question remains, what can you do to secure the job? The answer is simple, nail that interview. Let’s discuss how you can best prepare for a job interview to help you meet your goal.

How to Prepare for an Interview

Preparing for an interview requires some research, assessment, and lots of practice. Here is what to do.

· Assess Your Job

If you know what position you are interviewing for, assess its job description and consider what the company wants. This will help you highlight what you bring to the table in terms of skills, qualification, qualities, and experience.

List down the 10 most relevant of these to explain why you are a good fit for the job. Moreover, if the interviewer asks to describe a particular job skill, you will be ready.

· Research the Company

Researching the company has twofold benefits – you can answer any interview questions about the company, and you can ask your own. It will also make it clear to you if the company and its culture match your preferences.

· Practice

Practicing your interview beforehand can eliminate potential roadblocks and help overcome nerves. Recreate the interview setting and practice answering questions you may be asked.

· Prepare Your Look

Prepare your clothes and hair a couple of days in advance so you know exactly how you will look. You want to dress to impress and not seem like you struggled to get ready for the interview. Be neat, tidy, and well-groomed and dress according to the position you are applying for.

· Practice Etiquette

Greeting everyone you meet politely and enthusiastically is important at your interview and there are other interview etiquettes to practice beforehand like:

· A firm handshake

· Maintaining eye contact

· Paying attention

· Looking interested

· Maintaining good body language

There may be some added things depending on your job, find out what they are and practice them early on.

· Follow Up Thank You Note

After your interview, a thank you note, or an email can work like a sales note. Restate your interest in the job, how you best fit the position and most importantly, it gives you a chance to discuss anything that was left out in the interview.

Remember to keep it light and thank everyone in your note.

Conclusion

Hopefully if you follow all these steps you will have an excellent interview and secure your job. At the end of the day, sometimes interviews can make the difference between success and failure, even if you are not the most qualified for the job.