Prepare for interview

INTERVIEW SKILLS THAT'LL HELP YOU GET HIRED

Facing an interview is science as much as it is an art, one that requires diligent preparation along with the ability to be at ease in the interview room, comfortable and confident in discussing why you are the best fit for a role.

Punctuality

Do whatever you need to do to get there 10 to 15 minutes in advance of your interview time, whether it's planning your outfit and packing your bag the night before, setting five alarms or asking a friend to give you a wake-up call.

Thinking before you speak

A well thought out answer is always better than a rushed one. Of course, you don't want to sit there in silence for five minutes as you come up with an answer, but it is acceptable to take several seconds to think before you speak. Avoid the 'ums' and 'uhs' and buy yourself time by repeating the interviewer's question back to them. You can say, "What a great question. I've actually never been asked this before; let me just take a second to think about this."

60-minute Preparation Exercise

• 5 minutes re-reading and analyzing the job description, focusing on the essential requirements and responsibilities, in order to tailor you answers to focus on most important aspects of the job.
• 5 minutes re-reading your resume and cover letter, to review how you pitched yourself in the first place.
• 15 minutes researching potential interview questions specific to the position, and the industry.
• 20 minutes practicing answers to these questions and recalling specific examples from you work experience, such as major accomplishments, challenges or milestones.
• 15 minutes researching the company, looking into their history, mission and values, and recent projects.
• Indeed, practice makes perfect. in addition to practicing these steps on your own, ask a friend or family member to pose as an interviewer.