The job interview can make or break a job opportunity. If an employer is leaning toward hiring you but they discover that there’s a communication issue, they can change their minds.
Employers use an interview to confirm or reject their hunch about a candidate. Therefore, it’s important to make a good impression.
In 2021, the job interview saw changes. Many are no longer held on-site; they take place online over video conferencing software like Zoom.
This means that you have some additional factors to consider such as setting up a space, the tech, and background.
Here we outline seven job interview tips on how to make a great impression.
1. Prepare Before the Interview
To make a great impression for your potential new job, prepare. If your interview is taking place online, ensure that you have the login link. Test your tech and prepare your space.
Next, prepare for the interview itself. Research the company, write down your answers to the most common questions, and gather some industry statistics.
It’s possible to over-prepare. Some companies keep the interview simple. They want to test your communication skills and gauge if you fit into the company’s culture.
Those who show that they can bring worthwhile skills, problem-solving acumen, and reliability to the table pick up an edge over their competition.
2. Use Your Good Manners
An interview is a great time to bring your good manners into the fold. Remain polite and listen. Address the interviewer by their professional title and name until they permit you to address them differently.
Use your Yes, ma’am, and yes, sirs when you interview with executive-level representatives of the company. Start-ups and other companies will have a more relaxed company culture.
Remain polite and professional. Follow interview etiquette. They need to see you at your best first.
3. Dress for the Job You Want
Some industries define business professional attire differently than others. To make a great impression, dress for the job that you want.
If you interview for the fashion industry, the interviewer expects you to show off your style. When you interview for jobs in industries that remain conservative, dress accordingly.
The company managers want to see that you can professionally represent them.
4. Practice
Practicing for the interview gives you confidence. If this is your first time interviewing over video conferencing software, record yourself.
It’s an opportunity to adjust your volume, background, and attire. You might realize that you need to speak more clearly, add more substance to your answers, or research the company more.
5. Gather Your Portfolio
When you interview for your dream company and job, have your portfolio ready to go.
Some industries require a portfolio such as interior design, graphic design, and marketing. In others, it’s not called a portfolio. Instead, it’s a list of your business accomplishments.
In addition, some companies want to find diamonds in the rough. They don’t mind investing in, polishing, and nurturing new hires. However, they aim to hire the right candidates.
Others aim to hire candidates who start contributing on day one.
Your portfolio and accomplishments help you make a great impression. It also helps you negotiate your compensation.
For example, anesthesiologists perform tasks that require specific training and education. Physicians Thrive provides a guide that helps you negotiate your compensation.
6. Use the STAR Method
During an interview, it’s easy to get lost in the questions. It’s important to tie every answer with why you’re the best candidate for the available position. The STAR Method is common in behavioral interviews. However, it provides a structure that benefits all interviewees
Interviewers want to hear complete answers. If you use STAR, your answers consist of a situation, task, action, and result. It’s a structured way to present a situation where you problem-solved a solution and received a positive result. You can also present a situation where you picked up valuable skills.
7. Remain Authentic
Knowing that you’re competing against other candidates for a dream job takes you away from yourself.
During an interview, remain authentic. It allows the interview to get to know the real you.
Conclusion
Making a great impression during a job interview requires preparation. List your accomplishments and gather your portfolio. Then practice selling them and your skills. Research and practice are solid ways to gain confidence for the real thing.