Best Practices for Interview Preparedness

Best Practices for Interview Preparedness

If you’re a person who struggles with interviews, you’re not alone. A whopping 93% of people say they get nervous before job interviews, and sometimes those nerves can lead to job seekers being under- or ill-prepared. 

While many hiring managers anticipate some nerves and anxiety from those they interview, they are also looking for the right personality to complement and even bolster the teams they join. They also want to ensure those they meet with can provide more context to their résumé.

If all of this sounds a little overwhelming, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are five tips that can help you prepare for a job interview.

Be an Expert in Your Résumé

This may seem obvious, but when you’re interviewing for a job, you should know exactly what is on your résumé and be able to speak to your experience and skills confidently. Failing to answer these questions can lead hiring managers to believe that you have embellished or even lied in your application.

One way to do this is to prepare a 10-15-second speech for each section of your résumé, without needing to refer to the document. Practice this with a friend, family member, colleague, or mentor to get proper feedback.

Have Questions Prepared for the Hiring Manager

For the most part, every hiring manager will expect those they interview to have questions about the role of the company. While you may naturally ask questions throughout the interview, it’s also beneficial to have some prepared at the end of the discussion.

Here are some helpful questions that hiring managers like to hear:

  • What does success look like in this role?
  • What are some of the most common challenges someone in this role faces?
  • What professional development and growth opportunities are available for someone in my role?
  • What are the next steps in the interview process?

Be Honest When Asked About Gaps in Your Résumé

Discussing gaps in your résumé can be awkward. The best way to address them is to be honest and direct. 

  • If you were laid off for reasons unrelated to your performance, make that clear. To help your case, include references from your previous employer, specifically a direct supervisor.
  • If you took time off for a major life event, discuss the situation in your interview and talk about how that time has made you more prepared for the role you’re interviewing for. 
  • If you were let go due to performance, try to focus on how you’ve learned from that experience and what you will do differently in the new role. 

No matter the reason, try to remain honest and positive about your experience and wait to be asked about the gap. 

Don’t Just Focus on Skills and Experience

Your skills and experience will get you through the door, but hiring managers are also looking for certain soft skills (or personal attributes and interpersonal skills) that complement a team.

You never know what the team dynamic looks like or what traits and characteristics they’re looking for. When you go to the interview:

  • Ask about what soft skills they’re looking for in the role.
  • Be able to say how you approach challenges and address conflict. 
  • Be transparent about your working style and be able to explain how it’s been an asset in previous roles.
  • Always be yourself. Putting on a mask during the interview may negatively impact your success in the potential role.

Treat a Virtual Interview as You Would an In-Person Interview

Even after the pandemic, virtual interviews are very common. However, because they can be conducted on a computer or phone, some people do not treat them the same way as in-person interviews.

Here are some tips for a virtual interview:

  • Arrive early to ensure your equipment is compatible with the interview software, that your camera and microphone are working properly, that your internet connection is secure, and that your device’s battery is fully charged or connected to power.
  • Turn off notifications. If available for your computer, turn on the “do not disturb” mode to avoid intrusive and distracting notifications.
  • Dress as if you were attending an in-person interview. How you dress impacts the level of professionalism you bring to any social interaction. Make sure you dress the part for the camera. 

PRSG® Interview Preparedness

Still wary about your interview? The professionals at PRSG® will work with you directly to position you in the best possible way. We have strong, long-standing relationships with our clients and will set you up for success during the interview, no matter your concerns. 

To take the next step in your career or learn more about PRSG®, connect with us today to learn more. 

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