How to Answer Interview Questions Confidently
You’ve written your resume, applied for a new job and received a call to interview for the job you want. Now, you need to ace the interview!
Interviews are stressful for most people. It’s an important conversation and something you probably haven’t done very often. These 5 interview tips can help you be more confident, so you have a better chance of landing the job you want.
5 tips for interview success
Interview Tip #1: Know it’s ok to be a little nervous
Being nervous before an interview just means you want to do well. The person you are meeting with knows you’re going to be nervous. They’ve been there too. Once the conversation starts, it will be easier for you to relax. Your conversation will probably start with small talk. Just be yourself and use the beginning of the conversation as a chance to feel better. You can do this!
Interview Tip #2: Do your homework
Most interviews will include questions that will help the interviewer learn what you know about the company and the job. Take a little time to visit the company’s website. The best answers to interview questions are those you've thought about in advance. Visiting the company's website can help you prepare your responses.
Review the job description for the job you applied for. And think about why you want to work for that company. This information will help you be ready for these basic interview questions.
Interview Tip #3: Arrive early to be on time
You don’t want to rush in at the last minute. How early should you arrive for an interview? It depends. If you think you will need 15 minutes to settle your nerves, arrive 20 minutes early.
If you take public transportation, give yourself extra time in case your bus or train is late. We always say, “Early is on time. On time is late.”
Interview Tip #4: Plan for expected questions
There are many general interview questions you can prepare for. One of the most common questions is, “Tell me about yourself.” Prepare to answer this question by thinking about your strengths. Are you someone everyone can count on? Do you work well in a group? Are you always on time? Are you organized? Whatever is true about your personality at home will also be true at work. The best answers to interview questions, especially the tell me about yourself question, are honest and reflect who you are both in your everyday life and at work.
Interview Tip #5: Practice your answers
If it has been a while since your last interview, or if you get many interview requests but don’t get the job, we can help. The career counselors at a Goodwill Workforce Connection Center can help you practice your interviews so you look and sound more confident. We’ll help you know what to expect and we can help you plan for and practice answering the questions you’re likely to be asked.
Reach out today to schedule a time for an interview prep session. We are here to help. You’ve got this!