Congratulations! You’ve completed the application process, the interview has been scheduled, and you’re getting excited for this opportunity, but wait… you must prepare yourself before stepping foot into that interview. Planning ahead for an interview and being organized will make a world of difference in your appearance, your answers, and your confidence. So when it comes to possibly that dream job, don’t you want to be prepared to ace the interview?
6 Essential Steps to Prepare for an Interview
Research the organization
Knowledge is power when it comes to being prepared for an interview. Take time beforehand to research the company or organization. It’s important to visit their website and learn as much about the company and their mission as possible. Look at their social media to see if their culture would be a good environmental fit for you. Don’t stop there though, ask friends about the company, read some news releases and of course, look at Google to get multiple sources about the company.
Prepare your responses
Before you set foot into an interview, research common interview questions and practice answering them until you feel confident. Ask a friend to help you do some role play in answering questions, especially the tough ones to help you come prepared. Remember, if there is a certain field you are applying for, plan ahead for those specific those questions.
Plan what to wear
While there is no need to over-stress about what you are wearing for your interview, it is important to have it planned out ahead of time. An expectation on what to wear will be determined by the company you are applying for, so do a little investigating prior to your interview. Does everyone dress in business attire? So should you. Does everyone dress in blue collar work clothes? Come dressed in clean, buttoned up work clothes. As I always tell anyone that calls prior to an interview wondering what to wear, “It never hurts to overdress.” Have your outfit cleaned and laid out ready to go for your interview so you’re not shuffling right before hand to find matching items.
Get directions
Look up the address and figure out how much time is needed for travel and early arrival. Consider busy times and traffic conditions and make adjustments. If you’re getting a ride, confirm with your transportation the evening prior. Punctuality is very important, so don’t hurt your chances before you even get there.
Show up organized
Organize and collect all your items into a nice professional folder the evening before. These items could include:
- Copies of your resume
- List of references
- Note to self of who you are scheduled to interview with
- Pen and paper
- I-9 verifying documents. If you’re unsure what document can be used, call ahead to confirm.
- Information you may need to complete and application.
- Work clothes ready if needed. Sometimes applicants can go straight from an interview to a worksite, so it never hurts to have work attire in your vehicle ready to go.
Have questions ready
You don’t want to go home after your interview and suddenly remember all the questions you wanted to ask but forgot, so write them down if you need to! Avoid yes or no questions. Try asking questions like:
- “What qualities does it take to excel in this job?”
- “Can you tell me more about the day to day responsibilities of this role?”
- “Describe the culture of the company.”
One of the most important questions you will need to come prepared with are follow up questions. These questions will alleviate uneasy feelings after an interview thinking, “Now what?” Try asking questions like:
- “When should I expect to hear from you?”
- “What is the best method to follow up with you? (Be sure to grab their business card.)
- “What will be the next step if I am selected for this position?”
Always be sure to follow up after an interview! Give an appropriate amount of time after an interview for everyone to be interviewed, as well as going through the decision making process. This will keep you fresh on the interviewers mind and let them know that you are eager.
All Star Labor & Staffing has a wide variety of positions that are always coming available, so even if you are not selected for a certain position, continue to check in to see what other available jobs we have.
If you are ready to start a new career, or just simply find extra income, fill out our application online today at www.allstarlabor.com then call to schedule your interview!
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