Welcome to the World Academy blog series. In these posts, our very own HR department shares valuable tips and insight to help you unlock your financial good in your career as well as your finances.
You’ve been hot on the job hunt – scouring the job search sites, filling out applications, sending in resumes – and finally, you have an interview. Now what?
Getting called in for an interview is a big win. It means your name and experience stood out on paper enough to get you through the door. There’s still work to be done, though! Your interview is a big chance to sell your skills, showcase your abilities, and find out if the job is right for you.
Here are World’s top tips for nailing your next interview:
Come Prepared
Interview prep includes more than just grabbing a resume and donning a tie (though that’s a good start). It’s important to know what you can about the company going into the industry so you can speak to specific services, events, or changes in the company as you interview. This lets your interviewer know that you’re keyed in with what they are doing there. Read up on the industry, the leadership, and reviews from past employees. Use that information to drive meaningful interview answers.
Getting ready for an interview is more than just knowledge. Presentation is important, too. Pick out what you’ll wear ahead of time and make sure it’s clean, professional, and comfortable (so you can think about the topic at hand instead of your aching feet).
Be Curious
Have you ever been met with this question by an interviewer: “So, do you have any questions for me?” You may think it’s just a polite way to end an interview, but employers use this to gauge your interest in the innerworkings and dynamics of their company. Take this question for what it is – an open opportunity to ask insightful questions.
It helps to both plan some questions ahead of time and leave room to ask questions based on the interview conversation. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- How is job performance measured? Will there be a regular review process?
- Can you tell me a little bit about your project management systems?
- What are the values of your team?
Stay Calm
Let’s be clear – it’s normal to feel some nerves around an interview! Even if you’re nervous, you can project confidence, make eye contact, and breathe. Remember that you were called in for this interview for a reason. There’s something about you and your experience that piqued their interest. Also, an interview goes both ways – you’re studying them as much as they are studying you. Let that knowledge add to your confidence to go in there like the professional you are and show them your skill and abilities.
When you show up to those hard-won interviews with confidence and genuine interest, the right employer is sure to notice. From all of us at World to you – good luck on your interview!
On the job hunt? We’re always looking for people to join our team. Check out open positions at careersbyworld.com.