A job interview can be one of the most stressful, nerve-wracking experiences of a person's life. Make a good impression and you could eventually come away with a job, come unprepared or stumble through the interview and your chances of processing are slim. Follow these four simple steps to train yourself for what could end up being the most important interview of your life.
Do Your Research
Everybody can talk about themselves in an interview, but knowing about the company and position you applied to is equally as important. In a preliminary phone interview, a recruiter will likely offer to tell you more about the opening than what is available online. If you don't show you have at least some understanding of what the position or company does, you will come off as disinterested and unprepared.
At the same time, you're not expected to know what different positions do on a given day or have ideas to pitch -- those are things to consider for the second or third round of interviews. Know the job description of the position you applied to, a general summary of what the company does, and how your skills fit that position.
Reference Your Resume
In addition to learning more about the job and company on a preliminary call, you'll likely be asked to discuss your experience and skill set. You may be able to speak about this off the cuff, but it's a good idea to have your resume next to you while you're on the call. That way, if the recruiter asks, "tell me about what you did for your internship last summer?" you can easily reference your resume and elaborate when necessary.
Imagine your mind going blank when asked about your experience. It could be due to nerves, but you'll come off as unprepared, and perhaps someone who just goes through the motions at work. Make sure you know your resume, top to bottom.
Prepare Questions
Having questions for the recruiter is arguably the most important thing to prepare before a phone interview. Prepare AT LEAST four questions. They can be about the daily duties of the job position, what specific skills are used most on the job or how many people you would be working or communicating with on a given day. Ask your questions with an intent to learn more about the position and company. Ideas for what to ask can be drawn from the job description, qualifications, and requirements.
After the recruiter is done with their piece, they will almost always ask if you have any questions. Saying 'no' or 'not at the moment' is unacceptable. Come across as an insightful, curious candidate and prepare several questions in advance.
Prepare Answers
Nervous about your mind going blank after being asked a question? Numerous questions are commonly asked on preliminary calls, and you can find them with a simple Google search. Of course, they're not guaranteed to be asked, but having answers prepared can only help you.
Prepare these answers in bullet point form, so it doesn't sound like you're reading off a script, and have the document to hand when you're on the call.
Stay Active
In the lead-up to your phone interview, never, ever leave an email from a recruiter unanswered. Even if it's an email or message that doesn't require a response, respond. Refrain from writing long, puffy emails. Keep your messages clear and brief, use full sentences and a proper salutation and sign off. After your interview, it's crucial to follow up thanking the recruiter for taking the time to speak and for considering you as a candidate.
Staying on top of your email in the lead-up to and following your interview shows responsiveness and professionalism.
There is never a set formula for landing a job. Your experience and qualifications won't mean much if your personality and professionalism don't meet the employer's standards, and vice versa. Take advantage of your opportunity to interview and prepare for it like it could change your life -- it just might.
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