How to prep for an interview

From the author of the upcoming book "Think Like An Interviewer: Your Job Hunting Guide to Success" comes this article about getting ready for a job interview.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. **Interviews are informational**
   
   The first thing you should understand is that most interviews don't end in job offers. They end with a smaller number of candidates. So approach it from the perspective that you're getting info about them and they're getting info about you.
2. **Stay calm**
   
   Yes, interviews can be nerve-racking and stressful. After all, you're trying to convince an employer to hire you over everbody else. That's perfectly natural and normal!
   
   But there's nervousness and too much. So you need to relax and stay calm. That means not shaking like a leaf, waving your hands, twisting your hair, or shaking your leg.
   
   I suggest taking a couple of deep breaths beforehand to get yourself more relaxed. And always say to yourself that you're ready for it! And remain confident that you'll do your best, which is all anybody can do. Plus, you know you're qualified and can handle it. All you want is the chance to prove it! And most of all, you're not alone. The other applicants are in the same position and feeling the heat just as much as you are. So take comfort in knowing you're not the only one under some pressure.
3. **Do some research**
   
   To get through any interview, you must know something about the job, company, or profession. That means doing some homework to check them out. Here are some things you can do:
   
   a) Visit the company's website to see what they do, where they operate, how long they've been in business, and current news items.
   
   b) Check their latest quarterly or annual report to see how they're doing financially. Look at their sales and earnings (net income or loss).
   
   c) Read the business section of the paper to see if there's news about them, their industry, or their competition.
   
   d) Pay a visit to the company if possible to see how people dress. Maybe walk in and grab a company brochure or newsletter. And see how they're organized or laid-out.
4. **Prep for common questions**
   
   Prepare yourself for the most common questions you'll be asked. Yes, you cannot tell exactly what they'll ask, but there are some commonly asked ones. The biggest is "Tell me about yourself."
   
   If you're asked this one, you shouldn't be surprised. If so, then you didn't prepare and won't look good to the interviewer.
5. **Have resume and materials ready to go**
   
   I suggest having copies of your resume and any other materials you plan on bringing ready the day before. This way, you won't have to run around getting things together on interview day. This can help lower the pressure and keep you calmer. Why? Because you're ready and don't have to worry about it!
   
   Make sure you have at least 5 copies of your resume with you. You never know how many will be interviewing you, so 5-10 is showing good preparation. You may never use them, but if you need a couple, then you've got them.
   
   And if you have samples of your work, have them with you as well ready to go. A portfolio, briefcase, or nice looking folder to hold things looks professional.
   
   If you have references or a list of people who can vouch for you, make sure you bring them too. It's all part of planning ahead!
6. **Don't be late!**
   
   Yes, anything can happen. For example, there could be heavy traffic, an accident, bad weather, etc. But planning ahead means you adjust for these possibilites and leave early enough. So I suggest making sure you leave in plenty of time just in case.
   
   You also want to make sure you can get there without getting lost. If that means taking a dry run beforehand, do it. If you don't want to do that, then make sure you've got accurate directions. And leave extra time just in case you get lost or miss a turn.
7. **Have a list of questions you plan on asking**
   
   Since interviews are mainly informational, you want to have a listing of possible questions you'd like answers to. For example, benefits, salary, opportunity to advance, working conditions, etc.
   
   You don't know how much they'll tell you, but a list will help you check things off and make sure you get all the information you need to decide if it's the right job and company for you.
   
   Having a list in advance shows preparation and makes you look professional! And it helps you remember so you won't forget to ask.

Tips & Warnings

• Always speak with confidence
• Don't forget to thank the interviewer at the end
• Remember that you are not alone in feeling nervous; it's perfectly normal and expected!
• Listen carefully