How does one even begin to prepare for an interview? An interview with your potential employer can be one of the most important aspects of looking for a job. It is their first impression of you, and the effort you put forth is noted every step of the way. On this page, we will look at what goes into a job interview, how to prepare for it, and what to do AFTER the interview has taken place. 

Appearance

Regardless of what you are interviewing for, you should always be prepared to dress professionally. Your appearance i one of the first things that will be noticed by your potential employer, so it is imperative so start things off on the right foot. 

Check out the video below to help determine what to wear on the day of an interview! 

Prepare a Resume

A resume is a collection of your accomplishments, background, skills, and education. It is designed to give your potential an employer an idea of what you are capable of, and what you can provide to them in this new position. A well written resume can be a great way to make a lasting impression, so it is important to understand how to write and prepare a resume. 

If you are unsure how to write a resume, view the video below to get started creating one!

What if I don't have work experience?

That's ok! There are ways to write a resume with little to no work experience. There is still information that can be provided to your employer that will make a good impression. If this is the case for you, check out the video below!

Practice what you will say

Confidence is key when it comes to interviews. However, sometimes an unexpected question may throw you off. It is a good idea to prepare yourself for some of the typical questions that may be asked during an interview. Below is a list of 10 common interview questions. Take some time to go over them, and practice how you might answer each one. 

Common interviewer questions

1. So, tell me about yourself?
2. What are your biggest strengths?
3. What are your biggest weaknesses?
4. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
5. What would you consider to be your biggest achievement in the last year?
6. Tell me about a time where you had to make a tough decision.
7. What kind of work environment would you like best?
8. How would others describe you?
9. If hired, what can I expect from you?
10. What questions do you have for me?

After you have gone over each of the questions, have a friend or family member randomly ask you five of the questions. When you are done, have them give you a grade from 1-5 stars and use the stars below to put in your score.

Prepare a list of questions to ask

Before you go into your interview, you should do research on the company you are applying to. Doing so shows interest, and along with this research you should prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Asking questions gives you more insight into the company you are applying to, and helps you to better understand the company culture.

Common interviewee questions

1. What are some of the challenges with this job?
2. How would you describe a normal day in the workplace?
3. What is expected of me within the first 90 days that I am here?
4. Who will I be working with?
5. Who will be overseeing me?
6. What is your favorite part of this company?
7. What is your least favorite part of this company?
8. Am I able to clarify anything else about me?
9. When am I expected to start?
10. When can I expect to hear from you?

Follow up with your interviewer

Regardless of how you feel the interview went, you should always take the time to send a follow up email the next day thanking the interviewer for their time. This shows courtesy and character, and could very well be the reason why they choose you! 

In this email, it is a good idea to remind the interviewer why you feel you are the best fit for the position. You may restate your qualifications and show enthusiasm. Just remember to respect their time with getting back to you. It may be a few days before they are able to give you an answer on whether or not you are being offered the position. 

Never be discouraged!

Not being chosen for a position can sometimes be disheartening, but it is all a part of the process. If by chance you are not hired, don't worry! There will be plenty more job opportunities in the future. Always look at a job interview as a learning experience, and take what you have learned into the next interview. 

There is also nothing saying that you cant re-apply in the future. If by chance the company you want to work for requires certain education, skills, or certificates, find out what they are and how you might be able to acquire them. That way when you do reapply you will be ready!