The Art of Interviewing

Preparing for a job interview can be an overwhelming experience for all of us. However, with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be an opportunity to showcase your skills, experience, and potential value to the company! Here are some tips to help you master the art of interviewing from the candidate's side:

Research the Company

One of the most important things you can do before an interview is to research the company. Learn about its mission, vision, values, and culture. Read up on recent news or announcements about the company, its products or services, and its industry. Understanding the company's background and current state of affairs will help you answer questions more confidently and tailor your responses to the company's needs. If you know who you will be interviewing with, see if you can’t find them on LinkedIn to see if you have any mutual connections or interests you can work into conversation!

Practice Your Responses

While you can't predict every question you will be asked during an interview, you can prepare for some of the most common ones. Practice your responses to questions such as "Tell me about yourself," "What are your strengths and weaknesses," and "Why do you want to work for this company." Be concise, focused, and enthusiastic in your responses, and provide specific examples to illustrate your points.

Showcase Your Accomplishments

During an interview, it's essential to highlight your achievements and accomplishments. Rather than just listing your job duties, provide specific examples of how you have made an impact in your previous roles. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, such as "I increased sales by 20% in my first year on the job" or "I streamlined the company's invoicing process, resulting in a 50% reduction in errors."

Ask Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, the interviewer will likely ask if you have any questions. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your interest in the position and the company. Ask thoughtful questions that show you have done your research and are curious about the company's operations, goals, and culture. Examples of good questions to ask include "What are the biggest challenges facing the company right now?" or "What do you enjoy most about working for this company?"

Follow Up After the Interview

After the interview, it's a good idea to follow up with a thank-you email or note. Express your appreciation for the interviewer's time and reiterate your interest in the position. This is also a chance to address any concerns or questions that may have come up during the interview.

In summary, the art of interviewing from the candidate's side involves research, preparation, and thoughtful communication. By showcasing your accomplishments, asking thoughtful questions, and following up after the interview, you can increase your chances of landing the job you want. Remember to stay confident and positive throughout the interview process, and trust that your skills and experience will speak for themselves. As always, to those of you on the job hunt - good luck!