It’s that time of year again! Graduation is on the horizon and the job applications are piling up. But applying to your dream job is nothing compared to the interview process. What should you wear? What should you say?
Let all your worries float away because this week, I am sharing my seven tips for mastering your next interview.
1—Your Sales Pitch. Have you ever been asked the dreaded question, “So tell me about yourself?” Suddenly your mind is racing as to what you should and shouldn’t say. Do you talk about your collection of rubber ducks? Or should you just keep it professional and focus on speaking about your time in college? My general rule of thumb for a personal sales pitch is that you want to share a brief overview of who you are without reading off your résumé. Ideally, your employer will have a copy of your résumé in front of them so it’s not necessary to go through it verbatim. They’re smart; they know how to read. Instead, share some basic things about you, including your interests and passions. Giving insight into things that make you unique will set you apart from your competition. (Photo via @chelsstagram)
2—The Résumé. When writing your résumé you want to keep it simple and to the point. Don’t complicate your resume with too much text and definitely don’t go over one page. You want to share enough about your experience so that the employer knows your skill set while still being able to have a conversation with the employer about what you did at those previous jobs. (Photo via @annmarieelaban)
3—What To Wear. The saying goes “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” This same ideology can be applied to your interview wardrobe. It’s important to employers that you live and breathe their brand DNA. Take the companies aesthetic into consideration when picking out your best ensemble. If you’re interviewing with Nike, you definitely shouldn’t be wearing Adidas. Just like if you’re interviewing with Kate Spade, you probably shouldn’t be wearing any Michael Kors. Take time to dress on brand—literally and figuratively. (Photo via @mmoor)
4—Study Your Employer. Learn the ins and outs of your employer. For example, what’s their mission, their core beliefs, and why you want to work for them? Having this knowledge will show your employer that not only are you serious about the job, but you’re aware of the company’s aspirations as well. (Photo via @lib_bart)
5—Ask Questions. Don’t feel awkward about asking your employer questions. Although finding out what the pay is for a job may be important, there are additional questions you should consider asking to get a better grasp on what the job will require of you. Some questions you may want to consider include: What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role? What qualities will best help me succeed in this role? What are the next steps for the interview process? (Photo via @daniellesmodernlife)
6—Don’t Forget The “Thank You.” We’ve always been raised to say please and thank you and this practice can go especially far in an interview. Pay close attention to people’s names and try to obtain contact information so that you can personally thank your interviewer for their time. These can be formal thank you cards (mailed or hand delivered) or even a well-written email. (Photo via @livgraul)
7—Be You. Last but not least, don’t forget to be yourself in your interview. Employers can easily tell when you aren’t being authentic. Relax and let the real you shine. Your vulnerability will be well received and showcase that you are human, too. (Photo via @shelbyshowell)
Which of these tips will you be testing out at your next interview? Let us know in the comments below.
