When it comes to interviewing, preparation is always key. Whether it is an employee or an employer, everyone has a goal in mind — to fill a position or get the job. So why not plan ahead to ensure the process is seamless. The more time spent preparing with tips and tricks, the smoother the interview can be for all.
Check out these tips for a successful interview.
For Employers:
- Break the Ice
Employees are bound to be at least a little nervous at the start of an interview. A great way to loosen them up and get the conversation flowing is with an icebreaker.
It is important, as an employer, to make a positive first impression on any potential employee. Explore light and casual topics. These could be asking about their day or any recent world events, for example.
If they are on a video call, comment on their fun background or interesting painting — anything that can give you a better feel for their personality.
- Guide the Conversation
Asking yes or no questions may not elicit the appropriate response to the question. Consider asking open-ended questions that will prompt a thoughtful response.
Using examples that relate to specific tasks on the job can further ensure an enlightening response from the interviewee. Listen closely, pay attention to their response and do not be afraid to ask follow-up questions that dig deeper into that answer.
- Ask Personalized Questions
Interviewers should review their candidates thoroughly before the interview. They should make note of any interesting things that stand out on their resume, cover letter or portfolio. Plan to ask specific questions related to those.
This will show the interviewee that there was time invested in learning about who they are as an individual. It can also allow the interviewee to dive deeper into their personal experiences and for the interviewer to get to know the candidate better.
- Be Prepared to Answer Their Questions
As the employer searches for the right candidate, employees are also searching for the right company. Allow room for them to ask questions. Come equipped with answers that highlight who the company is.
More and more employees are picking jobs based on the company’s culture and standards. It is important to showcase them during the interview.
Eagerly touch on the positive qualities of the company and what makes it unique. This helps candidates understand all aspects what working there would be like.
- Prepare Them for Next Steps
Now that the questions are over, take some time to prepare the interviewee for the next steps after the interview ends. Whether they got the job or did not, it is important to follow up afterwards to leave a lasting impression of the company.
Be sure to clearly inform the candidate of the next steps, whether it is a follow-up interview with other members of the team, submitting a sample assignment or reaching out the following day or week. This can help them stay engaged with the open position.
For Employees:
- Research the Company
It is important to come prepared with knowledge about the company beforehand. An obvious benefit is that candidates will be able to bring thoughtful discussion and ideas to conversations about what the position entails. It will enable candidates to ask more advanced questions that give a solid impression of what this company and position are like.
Another understated benefit is how this demonstrates that the candidate is invested in this opportunity with this particular company. Time and effort spent learning as much as possible about the company goes a long way to stand apart.
Research key factors about the business such as how long it has been around, their mission and their products or services. Some employers may ask more specific questions, so it never hurts to do the homework.
- Prepare to Answer Common Questions
Most interviewers will begin with basic questions to open the conversation. These might include “Tell me about yourself,” “What made you apply to this position,” “What are you looking for,” “Talk about your strengths, weaknesses and five-year plans.”
Be ready for these kinds of questions and any other openers that share insight into the kind of employee they would want to hire. Remember, these are golden opportunities to showcase the best qualities, skills, individuality and passions.
- Have Some Questions Ready in Advance
Having a short list of questions shows the employer and the company that research and genuine interest in the company is there.
At some point, usually at the end of the interview, the employer will ask if there are any questions. Take this time to do so. Having no questions prepared may give off the impression that there is little interest in the position and the company.
- Look and Act Professionally
Showing up on time is one of the biggest tips anyone should follow. Interviewing for a potential job is no different. No matter if the interview is via phone call, in person or an online platform, arriving a few minutes early can not only give the right impression, but allow the interviewee to feel their most confident.
Do not be afraid to show confidence and balance the line between professional and casual. Being too professional can appear rigid or generic while too laid back can seem uncaring. While “Just be yourself” may sound like a cliche, it is tried and true advice.
First impressions are as important as being on time. They indicate the candidate cares and would represent the company well. Giving a professional impression is not only about looking and dressing the part, but the way candidates speak and carry themselves throughout the conversation.
- Build Rapport and Be Authentic
Creating a rapport and having an authentic conversation make for a better interview. Try not to jump right into the work-related topics, but rather embrace everyday conversation that keeps the tone light and inviting.
As an interviewee, these are moments to make impressions and show off those well-rounded qualities. Be ready to show off an enthusiastic side and share traits outside of the workplace. Talk about passion projects, hobbies and interests that will leave memorability.
By Shavantay Minnis.
