You’ve been invited to interview for a great new job, and you couldn’t be more excited. Of course, you’re also nervous, because you really want to be the candidate who gets the job offer.
Thankfully, there are plenty of steps you can take in advance to make a great impression on the interviewer. Doing a little prep work will allow you to shine on the big day, so use this advice to put your best self forward.
Four Interview Tips to Help You Stand Out
Dress Appropriately
The manner in which you present yourself means a lot. Therefore, it’s important to choose an outfit that’s both appropriate for the interview, as well as clean, pressed, and well-fitted.
Chances are, you won’t be given a suggested dress code, but that’s okay. Standard interview protocol is wearing an outfit one level above the company’s standard dress code. This means you would wear business casual if employees dress casually each day.
Be Prepared
There’s no way to know in advance what questions the interviewer will ask you. However, plenty of standard behavioral questions are typically on the list, so prepare responses for them.
For example, questions like “How do you prioritize projects under pressure?” and “Tell me about a time when you failed” will likely be asked in some form. It can be hard to come up with a winning response on the spot, so preparing in advance will ensure you deliver your best reply.
Send the Right Nonverbal Cues
Sometimes what you don’t say sends the strongest message. When you’re nervous, it’s easy to inadvertently relay nonverbal cues that don’t present you in the best light.
For example, actions like crossing your arms, failing to make eye contact, and slouching can give the impression you’re not that interested in the job. Therefore, you’ll want to make a point to send positive nonverbal cues like smiling and nodding at appropriate times, leaning forward a little to engage in conversation, and sitting up straight.
Ask Thought-Provoking Questions
You’ll be asked questions for much of the interview, but at some point, the tables will turn. The questions you ask — or don’t ask — will be carefully scrutinized, so get them right.
Hiring managers want you to ask questions that focus on the job itself — i.e., “How is success measured in this position?” or “Why did the previous person leave?” Anything focused on compensation or benefits will make it seem like you’re interested in the wrong reasons.
If you’re ready to find a new job in Michiana, Wood Staffing wants to help. Contact us today to get started!
