We asked hiring managers, recruiters, and HR managers for their insight on the most important pre-interview prep items.
#1. Look up the company website
You need to do your research. Take the time to visit the company’s website, look at their product or service offering, and understand who their customer is. This research will be helpful during your interview and will display your genuine interest in the company.
#2. Consider attire for the interview
While many companies have adopted a more casual dress attire for the workweek, it is still a good idea that interviewees wear a suit to impress. You’ll need to have a well-fitting suit that is cleaned, pressed, and ready to go the night before.
#3. Clean up your social media profiles
Your footprint online speaks volumes about you. If you have pictures or comments out there that aren’t appropriate or don’t showcase your professional experience, you are throwing up a big red flag to employers about your character. Google yourself and see what your online image looks like and see if it is something your grandma would be proud of. If not, you have some work to do to remedy it before the next interview.
#4. Have five standard questions prepared
During this part of the interview, you have the opportunity to ask questions that you need answers to in order to evaluate the position. When interviewees don’t have any questions, or they ask generic questions, it comes across as a signal to the interviewer that they aren’t very interested in the position. Have questions written down that will help you understand what it would be like working in the job you are interviewing for. Some standard, yet valid questions are:
What would a typical day look like in this position?
What does success look like in this position?
Make the questions your own and have follow-up questions based on the answers you’re looking for.
#5 Take paper, pen, and copies of your resume
The minute you walk in the door, your presentation begins. Invest in a sturdy padfolio that has ruled paper, a nice pen, and a side pocket for your resumes. Have enough printed resumes for everyone you are meeting with an extra just in case. Take the time to print them off on a heavier paper stock; typical resume paper is 24lb stock.
#6 Do not bash any former employers or co-workers
Regardless of how much you despise your current or previous, boss, colleagues, or company, refrain from sharing any information. Nothing good will come from divulging details during the interview. Be mindful of your facial expressions when talking about other work experiences, you don’t want to give the impression you are hiding something.
By being ready to sell yourself in the interview and along with following these steps, you’ll be prepared to tackle that next interview like a pro!
