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6 Tips to Ace Your Interview

Congratulations! You made it to the interview phase of the job application process. You've probably already sent in your application and the hiring manager has already reviewed your resume. Now it's time to sell yourself and seal the deal. Here are 6 interview tips that will help you ace your job interview.

Tip 1: Practice Makes Perfect

Instead of winging it the day of your interview, practicing beforehand can help calm your nerves and boost your confidence. Many schools offer practice interview sessions where students can receive valuable feedback in order to improve interview skills before the real thing. If that is not an option for you, simply have a friend or family member play the role of the interviewer. This way you can hear your answers aloud, making the necessary changes and receive feedback from others.

Tip 2: Do Your Research

It is important to research the company you are interviewing for because it is impressive if you are able to work your findings into a conversation with the interviewer. They may even ask you what you know about the company.

• Company Website:First start by browsing the company's website for a company overview, becoming familiar with what the company does, its offerings, history, executives, clients, etc.
• Job Description: Next, familiarize yourself with the job you are interviewing for, ensuring that you have a solid understanding of the job description, your role and what will be asked of if you were to get the job.
• Hiring Manager(s): If you happen to know the person or people who will be interviewing you, it is a good idea to research them on LinkedIn. You never know, you may have something in common.
• Company and Industry News: It doesn't hurt to go the extra mile and read-up on company and industry news. This could be an excellent conversation starter and proves to the interviewer that you are interested and took the time to do your research.
• Social Media: To learn more about the company's culture check-out their social media channels. Most companies post company culture related events, photos and videos on their social media channels. While you're at it, go ahead and follow their social media accounts.

Tip 3: Master Your Resume and Elevator Pitch

Make sure everything on your resume is up-to-date and accurate. Bring a few copies to the interview just in case. Many interviewers focus half the time on the content you have on your resume and the other half on conversations that cannot be found on your resume. A common question that is asked is, "tell me about yourself." This open-ended question is your time to shine. Confidently tell the interviewer about yourself without reading straight off your resume. This 30 second "elevator pitch" should be something you practice before the interview and not made up on the spot.

Tip 4: Make a Memorable First Impression

First impressions matter and you want your first impression to be remembered as a positive one!

• Dress Appropriately: Dress appropriately for the interview and remember it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
• Be on Time: It is crucial to be on time for an interview. Make sure you get directions to the interview location ahead of time and give yourself some extra time so you are not rushed. It's better to be 20 minutes early than 1 minute late!
• Be Polite to Everyone: Always listen and maintain eye contact when speaking with others. Be polite and say hello to anyone you pass by, even if they are the building janitor because every first impression matters and you never know who could be watching. If other candidates are present during your interview, although they could potentially be your competition, be polite, engage in conversation and treat them with the same respect you would treat anyone else.

Tip 5: Ask Intelligent Questions

Not only does the interviewer ask you questions, they also expect you to ask them questions. Interviewing is a two-way street. They want to find out about you just as much as you should want to find out about them. Be sure to ask relevant questions that show how interested you are in the position. You will be judged off of the questions you ask, so take the time to think of thoughtful, open-ended questions beforehand.

Tip 6: Follow-Up with a Thank You

Prior to leaving the interview site, be sure to thank your interviewer(s) for their time and end with a firm hand shake. Let them know that you are looking forward to hearing from them. In addition, it is nice to follow-up with an email or handwritten thank you, reiterating your interest in the position and thanking them again for their time.

Most importantly be yourself during the interview! It's normal to feel nervous, but if you adequately practice and prepare for the big day, you are one step closer to landing the job of your dreams. Follow these tips and you will be very well prepared for your interview. If you are interested in applying for a job with Excelacom, please apply here:Excelacom Careers