'Twas the Night Before the Interview...

​'Twas the night before the interview and all through your brain, ran thoughts of anxiety – will they think I am lame? You want to be prepared but aren't sure what to do. Follow these simple tips and you will breeze right through!

• Do your research –Check out the company website for information about their business and financials. Most companies are also very active on social media – LinkedIn, Facebook, and even Instagram. Be sure to check out those pages too as they often provide great insights into company culture and current events.
• Play dress up – Have you ever heard that old adage, "Dress for the job you want, not the job you have."? The interview is your opportunity to present your best self, and a crisp, clean, professional looking outfit will help you do just that. No need to go out and buy something new, but be sure you try on the outfit you plan to wear beforehand to make sure it fits and is wrinkle free. Nothing screams "I didn't put that much effort into this interview" like throwing on that old, wrinkled suit you wore to Great Uncle Larry's funeral 10 years, and 20 pounds ago.
• Go for a test drive – Many companies have large confusing campuses, with multiple parking lots and entrances. If time allows, it's always a great idea to map out your route and go for a test drive in the day or two leading up to your interview. Knowing exactly where you are headed the day of your interview and how long it will take you to get there, will help keep some of those anxious feelings at bay as well as ensure you arrive on time.
• Practice –Before you meet with the interview team, take some time to research general behavioral interview questions and think about how you might answer those questions if asked. Also, take some time to go through your resume and reflect on your prior experience. Taking a few notes on important accomplishments, projects you've worked on, even difficult situations you've navigated will arm you with great, real world examples of your work to discuss during the interview.
• Channel your inner detective – An interview is not only a time for the company to learn more about you, but also an opportunity for you to evaluate the company, team and position. Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and be inquisitive about anything that interests you. In my experience as a recruiter I have seen interviews go from ho-hum to extraordinary due to the thoughtful questions posed by candidates. These questions can open the door for more in depth conversation and give the interview panel a peak into what is important to you. Fire away!
• Mind your manners – You may think that sending a thank you note following an interview is passé, but think like Emily Post and always follow up with a thank you. While a handwritten note is nice, it's not required - an email will do the job as well. Taking the time to follow up with your interview panel re-enforces your serious interest in the position while giving you an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills. Also, during a long interview process receiving a note from you is a great way to keep your name top of mind with the hiring manager and recruiter.

With these tips in hand, you will be an interviewing pro. Practice and preparation will make you good to go! And GROWMARK Recruiting, we're here to help you get it just right – wishing prosperous interviews to all and to all a good night!
GROWMARK Recruiting wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season!
 
By: Beth Fannin