Ace That Job Interview By Using These Proven Steps!

Nothing beats getting a callback for a job interview. Your application got noticed and you’re that much closer to getting your dream job. But that callback can also be a source of anxiety, as there’s a lot on the line and many people find it difficult to talk about themselves. The best way to conquer your fears is to prepare. Here are some tips on how to prepare for job interviews, so you can land that job and start your career in the Canadian job market.

Research the Employer or Company

Learn more about the company and its values and goals, by looking at the company website and reading its social media feeds. The interviewer is likely to ask why you’re interested in working there, so it helps to have a firm sense of what exactly the company does and what its mission and objectives are. Having this knowledge will empower you to speak confidently about what your qualifications mean to them and how you fit in.

Review the Job Description

The job description is a useful tool that can help you anticipate questions and prepare answers. Read it a few times and pay attention to the specific words and phrases they use to describe what they’re looking for. Practice defining and describing your selling points, skills, experience and abilities using similar language, and make sure to highlight your qualifications in ways that align with the job description they advertised.

Practice Interview Questions

It can be hard to talk about yourself, so it’s good to have some practice. Download a list of typical job interview questions from a website focused on ‘careers’, and stage a mock interview with a friend or family member. Doing so helps you find the words to describe yourself and makes sure you’re conveying your abilities and putting enough emphasis on your strongest skills. It also gives you a chance to prepare answers to some of the more challenging, but frequently asked questions, such as “What are your weaknesses?” and “Why should we hire you?”

Practice your answers, but don’t memorize them. Keep your answers natural, speak clearly and don’t rush. If you’re feeling nervous, remind yourself that the interviewer genuinely wants to hear what you have to say.

Dress for the Job and be Punctual

It’s important to look neat, professional and well-groomed, and to arrive on time. Check the company’s social media feeds to get a sense of the appropriate dress code. Plan your route to the interview and give yourself plenty of time to get there.

Take the “Anderson College Career Discovery Quiz”

Prepare Questions for the Employer

The final question asked in any interview is usually: “Do you have any questions for us?” Wanting to know more demonstrates your interest in the company, so prepare some questions in advance. For instance, you might want to know whether the company offers in-house training and what kinds of growth opportunities there are. You can also ask questions about topics the interviewer brings up during the interview.

Wanting to learn more about the role, and about how the company operates not only shows you’re interested, it’s a great way to find out if the job and the company are the right fit for you. Asking questions is also a great way to give yourself a break if you’re feeling nervous.

Follow Up After the Interview

Once the interview is over, it can be nerve-racking waiting for a second interview, or to find out whether you got the job. To show your continued interest, send a polite follow-up email a few days later thanking the hiring manager. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and mention that you’re eager for the next steps in the interview process.

Interviewing is a skill like any other. Practicing and preparing by following these tips will help you overcome your fears and make sure you convey the most accomplished version of yourself to the interviewer. Acing that interview can help you land your dream job. Anderson College students who’d like more tips on job interview preparation, or assistance with resumes and cover letters, can reach out to our Career Services Department.

Quick Links to Fuel Your Success!

We want to make sure you have what you need to succeed! Check out these reference links:

• • • How to write a cover letter
    • How to write a resume

If you haven’t started on your path to a new career, start your journey today by enrolling in one of our 30+ programs and take your life to the next level of success. Book a virtual appointment with our Admissions team today!